The Volkswagen Passat (B6) 1.4 TSI BMT with 122 horsepower and a Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) was a variant produced between 2009 and 2010. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option within the B6 Passat lineup, it aimed to offer a balance of fuel efficiency and acceptable performance. This model occupied a space between the more economical base engines and the higher-performance TSI variants, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and reasonably equipped family sedan. It was primarily sold in the European market, where fuel economy and emissions regulations were increasingly important.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat (B6) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI BMT (122 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 143.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CAXA |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1391 kg (3066.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 589 kg (1298.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1091 l (38.53 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%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4765 mm (187.6 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1991 mm (78.39 in.) |
| Height | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2709 mm (106.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1552 mm (61.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 114 mm (4.49 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.4° |
| Departure angle | 12.6° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 10.8° |
| 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 suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse 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 | 205/55 R 16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5 J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Passat variant is the 1.4-liter TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) engine, specifically the CAXA engine code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration with direct fuel injection and an exhaust-driven turbocharger. The BMT designation stands for “BlueMotion Technology,” indicating features aimed at improving fuel efficiency, such as start-stop functionality and regenerative braking. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The engine utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its power output. The engine’s turbocharger and intercooler work together to increase air density, boosting power and torque. Paired with this engine is the 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox), a dual-clutch transmission known for its quick and smooth gear changes. The DSG offers both fully automatic operation and the ability for the driver to manually select gears via the shift lever or steering wheel-mounted paddles (depending on trim level).
Driving Characteristics
The 122 hp output and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque, combined with the DSG transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.8 seconds, and top speed was around 126 mph. The DSG transmission helped to maximize the available power, offering quick shifts and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.8 TSI or 2.0 TSI variants, this engine felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the DSG’s ability to downshift quickly mitigated some of this. The 7-speed gearbox’s ratios were geared towards fuel efficiency, resulting in a comfortable cruising experience but potentially requiring more frequent downshifts when climbing hills or accelerating rapidly. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Passat, the DSG offered greater convenience, especially in urban driving, but some drivers preferred the more direct feel of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 TSI BMT DSG typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, an audio system (usually with CD player and MP3 compatibility), and basic safety features like ABS, airbags, and stability control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, this engine was offered in base or mid-range trims. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a sunroof, parking sensors, upgraded audio systems, and navigation. The dashboard layout was typical of the B6 Passat, with a functional and straightforward design.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat B6 featured an independent suspension system on both the front and rear axles. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut design, while the rear employed a multi-link setup. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension and braking systems were tuned to suit the weight and power characteristics of the 1.4 TSI variant, providing adequate stopping power and a comfortable ride.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4 TSI BMT DSG Passat was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable running costs. However, some reviewers found the engine to be underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or driving on hilly terrain. Compared to the 1.6-liter petrol and diesel variants, the 1.4 TSI offered a noticeable performance improvement. Against the more powerful TSI engines, it represented a more economical choice, albeit with a compromise in performance. Fuel economy figures of around 40.6 US mpg combined were competitive for its class. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the DSG transmission, a common concern with early DSG units.
Legacy
The 1.4 TSI engine became a mainstay in the Volkswagen Group’s lineup, appearing in numerous models across various brands. The CAXA engine code, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. Today, used examples of the Passat B6 1.4 TSI BMT DSG are readily available and represent an affordable entry point into the mid-size sedan segment. Potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DSG transmission issues and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced. Overall, this variant remains a practical and economical choice for those seeking a comfortable and reliable family car.
