The VW Passat is an institution in Europe and like any self-respecting bureaucratic establishment it’s big, imposing and slow to change. The new one continues the familiar evolution of the model, though it does add an intriguing GTE plug-in hybrid model into the mix, to possibly lure folks away from the usual diesels.
Shown in the metal at the Paris motor show alongside the regular Passat and Passat Variant, the GTE features the exact same treatment that VW gave the Golf GTE. Most notably the subtle exterior touches, unique rims and a blue line on the front grille.
It promises excellent performance (0-100km/h or 62 mph in 8 seconds), as well as an all-electric mode that stays all-electric up until 130 km/h or 81 mph. VW says it can travel up to 50 km (31 miles) on a single charge, but if similar models that are already out are any indication, do not believe that number and multiply it by .75 or less for an actual real world figure.
We’re awaiting the first reviews of the new Passat, though, in-keeping with the institution theme at the start of the article, we expect it to be a familiar experience for all. VW would not want to change the formula behind what is a very popular model too much, so the GTE remains more interesting than the standard car.
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