The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B8) 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a high-performance iteration of the eighth-generation Passat estate (wagon). Positioned as a premium offering within the B8 range, this variant combined a potent turbocharged gasoline engine with Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and a dual-clutch DSG transmission. It catered to drivers seeking a blend of practicality, performance, and all-weather capability in a spacious family vehicle. The B8 Passat, launched in late 2014, marked a significant step forward in terms of technology, refinement, and design compared to its predecessor, and the 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG exemplified these advancements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat Variant (B8) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TSI (280 Hp) 4MOTION DSG |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 163-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 175.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 218.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 280 Hp @ 5600-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 141.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1700-5600 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1700-5600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXA |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1599 kg (3525.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2250 kg (4960.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 651 kg (1435.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 650 l (22.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1780 l (62.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 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%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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 | 1477 mm (58.15 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm (109.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568 mm (61.73 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 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 |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18; 235/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Passat Variant 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG lies the EA888 engine, specifically the CJXA variant. This is a 1.984-liter (121.07 cubic inches) turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. The CJXA utilizes direct fuel injection combined with multi-point injection, optimizing both power delivery and fuel efficiency. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting output to 280 horsepower at 5600-6500 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque between 1700 and 5600 rpm. The engine’s dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder contribute to its responsive nature. The engine also incorporated a start/stop system to further improve fuel economy.
The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission. This transmission offers rapid, seamless gear changes and contributes significantly to the car’s performance. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system is a sophisticated setup that normally drives the front wheels but can dynamically distribute power to the rear wheels when traction is needed, enhancing stability and control, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG Passat Variant delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 5.4 seconds. The DSG transmission ensures that power is readily available, and the 4MOTION system provides excellent grip in a variety of conditions. Compared to lower-powered Passat variants, such as the 1.4 TSI, the 2.0 TSI offers a significantly more engaging driving experience. While not as raw or focused as a dedicated sports car, the Passat provides ample power for confident overtaking and highway cruising. The automatic transmission, while efficient, may not offer the same level of driver involvement as a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG typically came equipped with a high level of standard features. These included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and upgraded alloy wheels. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, this engine/transmission combination was offered on higher-spec trims like SEL Premium or R-Line.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat Variant B8 features an independent suspension setup at all four corners. The front utilizes a McPherson strut design, while the rear employs a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The 2.0 TSI models typically featured larger brakes than lower-spec variants, with ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, along with electronic stability control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat Variant 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced technology. Compared to other estate cars in its class, such as the Audi A6 Avant and BMW 3 Series Touring, the Passat offered a compelling combination of value and practicality. Fuel economy, while respectable, was not class-leading, and some reviewers noted that the ride could be slightly firm on certain road surfaces. The 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI variants offered better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance.
Legacy
The EA888 engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The DSG transmission, while requiring periodic maintenance (fluid changes), is generally robust. The 4MOTION system is also known for its reliability. In the used car market, the Passat Variant 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG holds its value relatively well, particularly well-maintained examples. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule to ensure long-term reliability. The B8 Passat, and this variant in particular, represents a refined and capable estate car that continues to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and enjoyable driving experience.
