The Volkswagen Passat B8 1.5 TSI (150 hp) DSG represents a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s mid-size sedan, produced from 2018 to 2019. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the B8 generation (2015-2023), this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance, appealing to a broad customer base. It utilized Volkswagen’s modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform, specifically the A3 variant, shared with models like the Golf and Skoda Octavia. This configuration was primarily sold in the European market, where fuel economy and refinement were highly valued. The 1.5 TSI with the dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) was a key volume seller, bridging the gap between the entry-level 1.6 TDI diesel and the more powerful 2.0 TSI petrol options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat (B8) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.6 l/100 km (52.3 – 51.1 US mpg, 62.8 – 61.4 UK mpg, 22.2 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3-5.4 l/100 km (44.4 – 43.6 US mpg, 53.3 – 52.3 UK mpg, 18.9 – 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 121-123 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 105.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211evo / DADA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 586 l (20.69 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1152 l (40.68 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 710 kg (1565.28 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4767 mm (187.68 in.) |
| Width | 1832 mm (72.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2083 mm (82.01 in.) |
| Height | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2786 mm (109.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1578-1586 mm (62.13 – 62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1562-1570 mm (61.5 – 61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 H; 215/55 R17 H; 235/45 R18 V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Passat 1.5 TSI DSG is the EA211evo engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a member of Volkswagen’s modular engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. The ‘DADA’ engine code specifically identifies this variant. It features direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power. A single turbocharger with an intercooler provides forced induction, boosting power output. A key innovation of the EA211evo is its Miller cycle combustion process, which improves thermal efficiency by reducing pumping losses. This is achieved through variable valve timing on the intake side. The 150 hp output is achieved at 5000-6000 rpm, while peak torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) is available from 1500-3500 rpm. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), offering quick and smooth gear changes. The DSG transmission is known for its efficiency and responsiveness, contributing to the car’s overall performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TSI DSG Passat delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 150 hp engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.2 seconds. The DSG transmission contributes to seamless gear changes, and the engine’s torque curve provides good responsiveness in most situations. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TSI variants, the 1.5 TSI feels less urgent in acceleration, but it offers significantly better fuel economy. The DSG transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright performance. The steering is light and precise, making the car easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TSI DSG Passat typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Comfortline and Highline, added features like automatic climate control, heated seats, a larger touchscreen display, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on base models, with leather options available on higher trims. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat B8 utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, but the car still offers a reasonably stable and predictable handling experience. The weight distribution is fairly balanced, contributing to the car’s overall stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat 1.5 TSI DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel a bit underpowered, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.6 TDI diesel, the 1.5 TSI offered a smoother and quieter driving experience, but with slightly higher fuel consumption. Compared to the 2.0 TSI petrol, it offered better fuel economy but less performance. The DSG transmission was generally praised for its smoothness and responsiveness, but some owners reported occasional issues with reliability.
Legacy
The EA211evo engine family, including the 1.5 TSI variant, has proven to be generally reliable, although some issues have been reported with the timing chain and particulate filter (where equipped). The DSG transmission requires regular maintenance, including fluid changes, to ensure long-term reliability. In the used car market, the Passat 1.5 TSI DSG represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and well-equipped mid-size sedan at a reasonable price. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for buyers looking for a practical and economical family car. The B8 Passat, in general, has maintained a solid reputation for build quality and reliability, contributing to its continued popularity in the used car market.
