VW may call the Passat GTE plug-in hybrid one of the most efficient cars in the world, but it sure doesn’t come cheap. The automaker has set a starting price of €44,250 ($49,412) for the sedan and €45,250 ($50,528) for the estate in Germany.
The Passat GTE’s hybrid powertrain pairs a 156PS (154hp) 1.4-liter TSI turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with an 85kW (115PS or 113hp) electric motor and a lithium-ion battery for a combined output of 218PS (215hp) and maximum system torque of 400Nm (295lb-ft). The battery recharges either during driving, fed by the regenerative braking system, or at home via a power outlet.
When fully charged, the battery offers an all-electric driving range of up to 50 km (31 miles), while combined driving range is 1,114 km (692 miles). The average fuel consumption according to the NEDC standard for hybrid vehicles is 1.6 l/100 km (147 mpg US or 176.5 mpg UK) and 12.2 kWh/100 km, corresponding to CO2 emissions of 37 g/km.
Equipped with a 6-speed DSG transmission especially developed for this model, the front-wheel drive Passat GTE sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph). In all-electric mode, top speed is limited to 130 km/h (81 mph).
The VW Passat GTE can be recognized thanks to the C-shaped LED daytime running lights, specific chrome radiator grille with additional blue line, redesigned front bumper and striking cross panels in the lower air inlet. Additional styling updates include the exclusive 17-inch “Astana” alloy wheels and the blue-painted brake calipers.
Inside, the VW Passat GTE features a specific menu for the functions and displays on the “Composition Media” infotainment system and the instrument cluster. Other specific details are blue ambient lighting, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel with blue decorative stitching, GTE-specific gear knob with blue stitching and seats covered in “Sevilla” cloth with a blue basic structure.
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