Volkswagen has released details of its new efficient Bluemotion version of the recently introduced B8-series Passat.
Cutting fuel consumption from 4.0 to 3.7L/100km, the Bluemotion upgrades over the standard car include aero tweaks like low-drag alloy wheels and a redesigned slippery grille that closes automatically to reduce drag at speed.
Under the bonnet, the most efficient Passat this side of the hybrid is powered by an 88kW/250Nm 1.6-litre diesel that emits just 95g/km of CO2 – an impressive feat for a big car.
There’s no dual-clutch DSG automatic option, just the regular six-speed manual.
Against the clock the big Passat Bluemotion manages the 0-100km/h dash in 10.8 seconds for the sedan and 11 seconds dead for the heavier wagon. Top speed, meanwhile, is 210km/h for the sedan (208km/h for the wagon.)
In Germany the Passat Bluemotion has already gone on sale for around $40,000.
The Bluemotion version isn’t expected to make it to Australia. Nor is the regular 1.6-litre diesel. Instead, we’re taking the 135kW 2.0-litre diesel and the 132kW TSI petrol. A range-topping 176kW 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel is also said to be under consideration by the Volkswagen suits.
It’s still unknown when exactly the Passat will land here, but Volkswagen has confirmed it will be on sale before the end of the year.