Volkswagen Passat TDI out now
In the wake of the 2015 dieselgate scandal, Volkswagen South Africa opted to launch a petrol-only range when the eighth-generation Passat came to our shores in October 2015. Now the German manufacturer has done its time and sees fit to introduce the 2.0 TDI Passat to SA to complete the range.
We loved the petrol Passat, winning our ‘tasteful eight’ sedan shootout against more fancied opposition earlier in the yeat. And this TDI is a strong motor, sporting 130kW/350Nm, and VW says it’s been designed to deliver greater fuel economy – 5.0l/100km. Peak power is 130kW, arriving at 3600rpm, while 350Nm runs from 1500rpm, up to 3500rpm. Power is sent to the wheels via a 6-speed DSG. Top speed is 228kph, and a zero to 100kph sprint is achieved in a respectable 8.2 seconds.
Along with the new engine, VW saw it fit to refresh and restructure the equipment lines with some new features. The range is now offered in two new equipment lines, Luxury and Executive. The Luxury derivatives get LED headlights, 3-Zone Climatronic Air conditioner and Vienna Leather seats.
The range topper, Executive, has App Connect, Nappa leather seats as well as LED headlights with cornering lights and LED daytime running lights as new standard features. Furthermore, the Executive derivative is fitted as standard with R-Line Styling Package which adds sporty front grille; front and rear grille; side skirt as well as 18- inch ‘Marseille’ alloy wheels.
VW Passat pricing:
1.4 TSI Luxury 110kW DSG R468 200
2.0 TSI Executive 162kW DSG R518 600
2.0 TDI Luxury 130kW DSG R493 900
2.0 TDI Executive 130kW DSG R522 400
Standard with a 3 year/ 120 000km manufacturer warranty and 5 year/100 000km Automotion Maintenance Plan
