The Volkswagen Passat B7 1.4 TSI (150 hp) EcoFuel CNG DSG, produced between 2010 and 2014, represents a unique offering within the broader B7 Passat range. This variant was specifically designed to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers in European markets, leveraging the benefits of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) alongside traditional gasoline power. It occupied a mid-range position in the B7 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and a more accessible price point compared to the higher-powered TSI engines. The B7 generation itself was a significant refresh of the Passat, building upon the success of the B6, with improvements to styling, technology, and refinement. This particular model utilized the versatile 1HX0/A3 platform shared with other Volkswagen Group vehicles like the Audi A3 and Skoda Octavia.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat (B7) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) EcoFuel CNG DSG |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (CNG) (NEDC) | 5.8 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (CNG) (NEDC) | 3.5 kg/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (CNG) (NEDC) | 4.3 kg/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 158 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (CNG) (NEDC) | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 214 km/h (132.97 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm, 142.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CDGA |
| 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 and Multi-port manifold 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 | 1544 kg (3403.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 596 kg (1313.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 31 l (8.19 US gal | 6.82 UK gal) |
| CNG cylinder capacity | 21 kg |
| 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 | 4769 mm (187.76 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2062 mm (81.18 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 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 | 1116 mm (43.94 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 13.5° |
| Departure angle | 11.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 9.5° |
| 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 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 215/55 R16; 235/45 R17; 235/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Passat B7 1.4 TSI (150 hp) EcoFuel CNG DSG, produced from 2010 to 2014, was a compelling option for European drivers seeking a more sustainable and economical vehicle. This variant combined a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with a dedicated CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) system, allowing it to run on either fuel or a combination of both. The EcoFuel designation signified Volkswagen’s commitment to alternative fuels. The B7 Passat, a facelift of the B6, aimed to refine the existing model with updated styling, improved interior quality, and enhanced technology. This particular engine and transmission pairing was positioned as a mid-range offering, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and lower running costs over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Passat B7 1.4 TSI EcoFuel lies the EA111 engine code, specifically the CDGA variant. This 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine is notable for its combination of turbocharging and supercharging – a relatively uncommon setup. The supercharger provides immediate boost at low engine speeds, eliminating turbo lag, while the turbocharger takes over at higher RPMs for sustained power delivery. Direct injection and multi-port manifold injection work in tandem to optimize fuel combustion. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4500 rpm. The CNG system allows the engine to run on compressed natural gas, significantly reducing emissions and fuel costs where CNG infrastructure is available. The engine seamlessly switches between gasoline and CNG operation. Paired with the engine is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), known for its quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission contributes to both fuel efficiency and a more engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI EcoFuel with the DSG transmission delivers a balanced driving experience. While not as sporty as the higher-powered TSI variants, it provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 9.8 seconds. The DSG transmission ensures responsive shifts, and the combined supercharger/turbocharger setup provides a relatively broad torque curve. In CNG mode, power output is slightly reduced, but fuel costs are significantly lower. The DSG transmission is programmed with gear ratios optimized for fuel economy, which can sometimes result in the engine feeling slightly strained during aggressive acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.4 TSI, the DSG offers greater convenience, especially in urban traffic. However, some drivers may prefer the more direct feel of a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Passat B7 1.4 TSI EcoFuel CNG DSG typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, an audio system with CD player, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, parking sensors, and leather upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather upgrades available. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat B7 1.4 TSI EcoFuel utilized an independent suspension setup, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, making it well-suited for long-distance cruising.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat B7 1.4 TSI EcoFuel CNG DSG was generally well-received by critics, particularly for its fuel efficiency and environmental credentials. It offered a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles, especially in countries with well-developed CNG infrastructure. Compared to the 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TSI variants, the 1.4 TSI EcoFuel offered lower running costs but less outright performance. The 1.6 TDI diesel model provided similar fuel economy but with a different driving experience. Reliability was generally good, although the complex CNG system required specialized maintenance.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Passat B7 1.4 TSI EcoFuel CNG DSG represents an interesting chapter in Volkswagen’s exploration of alternative fuels. While CNG infrastructure remains limited in many parts of the world, this variant demonstrated the potential for reducing emissions and fuel costs. On the used car market, these models are often sought after by environmentally conscious buyers and those looking for a cost-effective vehicle. The EA111 engine, while known for its complexity, has proven to be relatively durable when properly maintained. The DSG transmission, however, can be a potential source of issues if not serviced regularly. Overall, the Passat B7 1.4 TSI EcoFuel CNG DSG remains a viable and interesting option for those seeking a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly mid-size sedan.
