The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B8) 1.5 TSI 150 hp represents a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and technology within the eighth generation of Volkswagen’s popular mid-size family car. Produced from October 2018 to June 2019, this variant occupied a significant position in the Passat lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy for buyers seeking a versatile estate car. It’s built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform (specifically the A3 variant), shared with models like the Skoda Superb and Audi A4, and aimed primarily at the European market where the station wagon body style remains highly favored.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat Variant (B8) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2018 |
| End of production | June, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5-6.7 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.1 US mpg, 43.5 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.4 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6-4.8 l/100 km (51.1 – 49 US mpg, 61.4 – 58.9 UK mpg, 21.7 – 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3-5.5 l/100 km (44.4 – 42.8 US mpg, 53.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 18.9 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 120-124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp, 103.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 172.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211evo / DADA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 650 l (22.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1780 l (62.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 720 kg (1587.33 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 | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2786 mm (109.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1578-1586 mm (62.13 – 62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1562-1570 mm (61.5 – 61.81 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 of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B8) 1.5 TSI 150 hp, launched in late 2018, represented a key offering in the Passat range. Positioned as a mid-range option, it aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality for families and individuals needing a spacious and versatile vehicle. The B8 generation Passat, introduced in 2014, brought a significant redesign and technological upgrade over its predecessor. This particular variant utilizes Volkswagen’s newer 1.5 TSI engine, designed to offer improved efficiency and refinement compared to older engine options. It was a popular choice in Europe, where estate cars (Variants) continue to hold a strong market share.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Passat Variant 1.5 TSI lies the EA211evo engine, specifically the DADA engine code. This is a 1.5-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine featuring direct injection and a turbocharger with intercooling. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and improving efficiency. The turbocharger provides a boost in power, delivering 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. A key feature of this engine is its ability to operate on the Miller cycle under partial load, further enhancing fuel economy. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a good balance between fuel efficiency and driver engagement. The engine also incorporates a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting the stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TSI 150 hp Passat Variant offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.8 seconds. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power when accelerating, and the engine feels responsive throughout the rev range. Compared to higher-output versions like the 2.0 TSI, this variant offers less outright performance, but it compensates with improved fuel economy. The manual transmission provides precise gear changes, and the gear ratios are well-suited for both city and highway driving. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Passat Variant 1.5 TSI 150 hp typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as leather upholstery, a larger touchscreen display, navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Dashboard configuration was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat Variant features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to balance handling and comfort, making it suitable for both city driving and long-distance journeys. Braking systems typically consisted of ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control were standard features, enhancing safety and control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat Variant 1.5 TSI 150 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. Compared to the 1.6 TDI diesel variant, the 1.5 TSI offered a more refined driving experience and slightly better performance, although the diesel typically achieved better fuel economy. Against the more powerful 2.0 TSI models, the 1.5 TSI represented a more affordable option, sacrificing some performance for improved efficiency. Reliability reports generally indicate good dependability, although regular maintenance is crucial for long-term ownership.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B8) 1.5 TSI 150 hp has proven to be a reliable and practical family car. On the used car market, these models are generally well-regarded, offering a good balance of features, performance, and value. The EA211evo engine has a reputation for being relatively robust, although it’s important to check for regular maintenance records, particularly regarding oil changes and timing chain health. The Passat Variant continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and versatile estate car, and the 1.5 TSI variant remains a compelling option for buyers looking for a balance of efficiency and performance.
