The Volkswagen Passat B6 2.0 TDI BlueMotion, produced from October 2008 to July 2010, represented a significant effort by Volkswagen to balance fuel efficiency with practicality in the mid-size sedan segment. Positioned as a more economical option within the B6 Passat range, it aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing lower running costs without sacrificing the Passat’s reputation for comfort and build quality. This variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 110 horsepower, was primarily sold in European markets, where diesel fuel was more prevalent and fuel economy was a key purchasing factor. It slotted below the more powerful TDI variants, offering a more accessible entry point into the Passat lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat (B6) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (110 Hp) BlueMotion |
| 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) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.2 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 | 1343 kg (2960.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 667 kg (1470.48 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%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 740 kg (1631.42 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 | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J X 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Passat B6 2.0 TDI BlueMotion is the CBDC, CEHC, or CLCA engine code 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine is turbocharged with an intercooler, enhancing power output and torque. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, optimizes gas flow for better performance. A particulate filter was standard, helping to reduce soot emissions and meet stringent Euro 5 emission standards. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The gear ratios were tuned to prioritize fuel economy, with a relatively long final drive.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 TDI BlueMotion engine resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.1 seconds, and top speed was approximately 123 mph. The engine’s torque peak, available from 1500-2500 rpm, provided good low-end responsiveness, making it suitable for everyday driving. However, compared to the more powerful TDI variants (like the 170 hp version), this engine felt noticeably less potent, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The 5-speed gearbox, while efficient, lacked the versatility of a 6-speed unit, and could feel strained at highway speeds. The focus was clearly on maximizing fuel economy rather than providing a sporty driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI BlueMotion trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional, if not luxurious, design. Alloy wheels were often included as standard, contributing to the car’s aesthetic appeal. Optional extras included features like a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, parking sensors, and leather upholstery. The “BlueMotion” designation also indicated specific aerodynamic enhancements, such as a lowered ride height and modified front grille, designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat B6 2.0 TDI BlueMotion utilized a standard front-wheel-drive configuration with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, with a focus on stability and predictability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat B6 2.0 TDI BlueMotion was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offered a compelling alternative to petrol-powered vehicles, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was cheaper and more readily available. Compared to the higher-output TDI variants, the 110 hp version was seen as a more affordable option, but some reviewers criticized its lack of performance. Fuel economy was a major selling point, with combined figures averaging around 48 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although, like all diesel engines, it was susceptible to issues with the fuel injection system and particulate filter if not properly maintained.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Passat B6 2.0 TDI BlueMotion remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and reliable mid-size sedan. The 2.0 TDI engine, while not the most powerful, has proven to be relatively durable when properly maintained. Common issues include wear and tear on the turbocharger, potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), and occasional issues with the fuel injectors. However, these are generally manageable with regular servicing and preventative maintenance. The BlueMotion variant’s focus on efficiency continues to appeal to buyers conscious of fuel costs and environmental impact, ensuring its continued presence on roads today.
