The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B7) 1.4 TSI BMT with 160 horsepower and a Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) represents a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s popular mid-size wagon, produced from 2012 to 2014. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and technologically advanced option within the B7 Passat range, this variant aimed to balance practicality with a more engaging driving experience than the diesel offerings. It sat in the mid-range of the lineup, offering a step up in performance from the base models while remaining more accessible than the higher-powered 2.0 TSI variants. The B7 generation, built on the Volkswagen Group’s PQ46 platform (also known as the A6 platform in some contexts), benefited from refinements in styling, interior quality, and technology compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat Variant (B7) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI BMT (160 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 144 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 218 km/h (135.46 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CTHD |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1464 kg (3227.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 656 kg (1446.23 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 603 l (21.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1731 l (61.13 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 | 4771 mm (187.83 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2062 mm (81.18 in.) |
| Height | 1516 mm (59.69 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 | 1118 mm (44.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 312×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 286×12 mm |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Passat Variant is the EA111 1.4-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine, designated CTHD. This engine is a marvel of engineering, employing both a turbocharger and a supercharger to deliver a broad torque curve and minimize turbo lag. The supercharger provides boost at lower engine speeds, seamlessly handing over to the turbocharger as RPMs climb. Direct fuel injection further enhances efficiency and power output. The engine produces 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. Paired with this engine is the Volkswagen Group’s renowned 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox), a dual-clutch transmission known for its quick and smooth shifts. The DSG allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI BMT with DSG offers a surprisingly capable driving experience for a mid-size wagon. Acceleration to 60 mph takes approximately 8.3 seconds, and the car feels responsive in everyday driving situations. The DSG transmission contributes to this responsiveness, providing quick gear changes and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-output 2.0 TSI models, the 1.4 TSI offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy. The gear ratios in the DSG are well-chosen, providing adequate acceleration in most scenarios. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the DSG offers greater convenience and ease of use, particularly in urban traffic. However, some drivers may prefer the more direct feel of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 TSI BMT DSG Passat Variant typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and an infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather available as upgrades. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, this engine/transmission combination was offered in mid-range trims, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The B7 Passat Variant features an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) 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 feels stable and predictable in most driving situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4 TSI BMT DSG Passat Variant was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined powertrain. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 2.0 TSI variants, the 1.4 TSI offered lower running costs but less outright performance. Against diesel-powered Passats, it provided a quieter and smoother driving experience, but typically with slightly higher fuel consumption. The DSG transmission was also a point of praise, although some concerns were raised about its long-term reliability.
Legacy
The EA111 1.4 TSI engine, while innovative, has been known to exhibit some long-term reliability issues, particularly related to carbon buildup on the intake valves. Regular maintenance, including the use of quality fuel and occasional intake valve cleaning, is crucial to ensure its longevity. The DSG transmission, while generally reliable, can also require servicing to maintain optimal performance. Today, the B7 Passat Variant 1.4 TSI BMT DSG represents a good value proposition in the used car market, offering a practical and well-equipped wagon at an affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance requirements associated with the engine and transmission.
