The new Volkswagen Passat GTE, a car which is able to offer sporty performance with low running costs has gone on sale today starting from £36,525 – excluding the £2,500 government grant.
Offered in saloon and estate body styles, the new model is the most environmentally friendly Passat going and is capable of emitting just 39g/km of CO2 emissions and fuel economy of 166mpg. That’s not to say it’ll be boring to drive though as this plug-in hybrid has 215bhp and 400Nm of torque delivered from the 1.4 TSI and electric motor. 0-62mph comes in a respectable 7.6 seconds and the top speed is 140mph.
Let’s get back to the economy though – I know, it’s not the most exciting aspect of a car but it’s one that can prove vital. The Passat GTE has a potential range of 660 miles and the electric only mode offers a short range of 31 miles.
The GTE will charge in 4 hours and 15 minutes from a traditional socket or 2 hours and 30 minutes when a dedicated charging point is used.
A specially developed six-speed DSG gearbox sits in the Passat GTE that features a third disengagement clutch to help make the best use of the kinetic energy thus improving economy – very clever. It’s features like this which has enabled the Passat GTE to win in the Large Family Car class at the recent Next Green Car awards. Ok, I think we’ve covered enough of the economy, let’s have a look at the specification.
The 18" alloys help provide style to the GTE
The first things you’ll notice on the new model are the C-shaped LED running lights and the 18-inch alloy wheels as well as a redesigned front bumper. Step inside and you’ll find blue ambient lighting, a leather multifunction steering wheel finished in blue stitching and a GTE gearknob which also receives blue stitching. Finishing the inside specification are seats finished in alcantara with Vienna leather side bolsters.
It’s available to order now with prices starting at £36,525 for the saloon and £38,075 for the estate.