The Volkswagen Passat B6 2.0 TDI (110 hp) was a popular variant of Volkswagen’s mid-size sedan, produced between October 2008 and July 2010. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option within the B6 Passat range, it catered to buyers seeking a balance between economy and everyday usability. This model occupied a middle ground in the lineup, offering a step up from the base petrol engines while remaining more affordable than the higher-powered TDI variants or the petrol VR6. It was primarily sold in the European market, where diesel engines held a significant market share, and represented Volkswagen’s commitment to offering a diverse range of powertrain options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat (B6) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2008 |
| End of production | July, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 183.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBDC, CEHC, CLCA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1091 l (38.53 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4765 mm (187.6 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1991 mm (78.39 in.) |
| Height | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2709 mm (106.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Front overhang | 965 mm (37.99 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1091 mm (42.95 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 114 mm (4.49 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.281 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.4° |
| Departure angle | 12.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 10.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J X 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Passat B6 2.0 TDI (110 hp) was the Volkswagen Group’s 1.968-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. Engine codes for this variant included CBDC, CEHC, and CLCA, depending on the specific market and production date. This engine utilized a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This technology, combined with a turbocharger and intercooler, allowed for a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow and contributing to its performance. The 110 hp output was achieved at 4200 rpm, while peak torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) was available between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, designed to efficiently transfer power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI (110 hp) Passat B6 offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 11.8 seconds, which was noticeably slower than the more powerful TDI variants or the petrol VR6. However, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it well-suited for everyday driving, providing adequate power for overtaking and merging onto highways. The 5-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth gear changes. Compared to the higher-output TDI models, this variant felt less stressed at higher speeds and offered better fuel economy. The gear ratios were optimized for efficiency rather than rapid acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI (110 hp) Passat B6 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Dashboard configuration was standard for the B6 Passat, featuring a functional and ergonomic layout. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system with navigation. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, this engine was offered in mid-range trims, providing a good balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat B6 featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Braking systems consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The weight distribution was fairly balanced, contributing to stable handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat B6 2.0 TDI (110 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good build quality. However, some critics noted its relatively modest performance compared to other engines in the Passat lineup. Compared to the 1.9 TDI, the 2.0 TDI offered slightly more power and refinement. Compared to the 2.0 TDI with 140 hp or the VR6 petrol engine, it was less powerful but significantly more fuel-efficient. Its fuel economy of around 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than petrol.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Passat B6 2.0 TDI (110 hp) powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable over the long term, although, like any diesel engine, it is susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and fuel injectors. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for ensuring its longevity. In the used car market today, these Passats are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient mid-size sedan. While not the most exciting variant in the B6 Passat range, it remains a practical and dependable choice for everyday transportation.
