The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B7) 2.0 TDI BMT with 177 horsepower and a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system paired with a Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) was a significant offering in the European market from 2013 to 2014. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the B7 Passat Variant range, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability. This variant represented a refinement of Volkswagen’s popular estate car, building upon the foundation of the B7 platform (shared with the Škoda Superb and Audi A4) and offering a compelling alternative to traditional saloons and SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat Variant (B7) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI BMT (177 Hp) 4MOTION DSG |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 217 km/h (134.84 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 110.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 237.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CFGC |
| 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 | 16:1 |
| 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 | 1597 kg (3520.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2280 kg (5026.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 683 kg (1505.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 588 l (20.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1716 l (60.6 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 | 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Passat Variant is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, specifically the EA189 series, identified by the engine code CFGC. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The BMT (BlueMotion Technology) designation indicates the inclusion of features designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, such as a particulate filter and optimized engine management. The engine employs a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhances breathing and performance. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
The DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) is a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. This type of transmission offers the efficiency of a manual gearbox with the convenience of an automatic. It achieves this by utilizing two separate clutches – one for the odd-numbered gears and one for the even-numbered gears – allowing for incredibly fast and smooth gear changes. The 4MOTION system is a permanent all-wheel-drive system, utilizing a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 177 horsepower and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 TDI BMT engine, coupled with the DSG transmission and 4MOTION system, resulted in a capable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 8.5 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine delivered ample power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The DSG transmission contributed to responsive acceleration and smooth gear changes. The 4MOTION system provided excellent grip and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6 TDI variants, this 2.0 TDI offered a noticeable performance upgrade. However, it didn’t possess the outright punch of the higher-output TDI models or the more engaging driving experience of a manual transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION DSG typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, alloy wheels, and a comprehensive suite of safety equipment, including ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette. Optional extras included leather seats, a sunroof, a navigation system, and parking sensors. The trim level often fell into the mid-range of the B7 Passat Variant lineup, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The B7 Passat Variant featured an independent suspension setup at all four wheels. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup, also with coil springs and a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) worked in conjunction to provide safe and controlled braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat Variant (B7) 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its practicality, comfort, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. The combination of the diesel engine, DSG transmission, and 4MOTION system was seen as a strong selling point. Compared to the lower-powered TDI variants, this model offered a significant performance boost. However, some critics noted that the ride could be slightly firm and that the interior design, while functional, wasn’t particularly exciting. Fuel economy was a strong point, averaging around 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) in combined driving.
Legacy
The EA189 engine family, while generally reliable, has been subject to scrutiny regarding emissions compliance, particularly in the wake of the “Dieselgate” scandal. However, the 2.0 TDI BMT engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a durable and long-lasting powertrain. In the used car market, the Passat Variant (B7) 2.0 TDI BMT 4MOTION DSG remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical, comfortable, and capable estate car. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial to ensure the continued reliability of this powertrain. The 4MOTION system adds to the vehicle’s appeal, particularly in regions with harsh winters or challenging road conditions.
