The Volkswagen Passat (B7) 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION, produced between 2010 and 2014, represents a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s mid-size executive car. This variant, equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 140 horsepower and paired with a six-speed manual transmission, and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, was positioned as a practical and capable all-weather option within the B7 Passat lineup. It catered to buyers seeking a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and enhanced traction, particularly in regions experiencing inclement weather. The B7 generation itself was a comprehensive revision of the B6, featuring updated styling, improved interior quality, and advancements in technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat (B7) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI BMT (140 Hp) 4MOTION |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 137 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CFFB |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| 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 | 1562 kg (3443.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 628 kg (1384.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 541 l (19.11 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4769 mm (187.76 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2062 mm (81.18 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2712 mm (106.77 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Front overhang | 941 mm (37.05 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1116 mm (43.94 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). Internal Combustion engine. The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Passat B7, launched in 2010, represented a significant refresh of the popular Passat model. The 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION variant, specifically, was aimed at European markets where diesel engines and all-wheel drive were highly sought after for their fuel efficiency and all-weather capability. The “BMT” designation stands for “BlueMotion Technology,” indicating the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies. This model occupied a middle ground in the Passat B7 range, offering a step up in performance and traction from the base models while remaining more accessible than the higher-powered trims like the 2.0 TDI with a higher output or the petrol-powered variants. It was built on the Volkswagen Group’s B7 platform (shared with the Škoda Superb and Audi A4), known for its solid engineering and comfortable ride.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Passat B7 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION lies the EA189 series 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine, specifically the CFFB engine code. 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 features a turbocharger with an intercooler to increase power output. The valvetrain is a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The 4MOTION system employs a Haldex multi-plate clutch, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed, providing superior grip in slippery conditions. The six-speed manual transmission offers precise gear changes and contributes to the vehicle’s overall efficiency. The BMT package included features like regenerative braking and optimized engine mapping to further reduce fuel consumption.
Driving Characteristics
The 140 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 TDI BMT engine delivered respectable performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.4 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 130.49 mph. While not a sports car, the engine provided ample power for overtaking and cruising on the highway. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for efficiency or performance. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system significantly enhanced traction, particularly on wet or snowy roads, providing a confident and stable driving experience. Compared to the higher-output 2.0 TDI variants, this version felt less urgent in its acceleration, but the trade-off was improved fuel economy. The manual transmission also offered a more engaging driving experience than the available DSG dual-clutch automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Passat B7 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels offered options such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, a navigation system, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with the option of upgrading to leather. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with clear instrumentation and intuitive controls. Safety features included ABS brakes, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat B7 featured an independent suspension system, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 4MOTION system added to the stability, especially during cornering. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort, making it a suitable vehicle for long-distance travel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat B7 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. Compared to the higher-powered TDI variants, it offered a more affordable entry point into the Passat range. However, some critics noted that the 140 horsepower engine could feel underpowered when the car was fully loaded or traveling uphill. In terms of fuel economy, it consistently outperformed the more powerful petrol-powered Passat models. Reliability was generally good, although, like all diesel engines, it was susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Passat B7 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly in Europe. Its combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-wheel-drive capability makes it a versatile and reliable vehicle. The EA189 engine, while subject to some controversy regarding emissions (Dieselgate), is generally considered durable when properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, filter replacements, and occasional DPF regeneration. The 4MOTION system requires periodic servicing to ensure optimal performance. Today, these Passats represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, economical, and capable mid-size sedan.
