The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B8) GTE 1.4 TSI, produced from October 2015 to May 2018, represents Volkswagen’s foray into the plug-in hybrid market with its popular mid-size wagon. Positioned as a premium offering within the B8 Passat Variant range, the GTE (Gran Turismo Electric) combined a turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering a blend of performance and fuel efficiency. This variant was primarily aimed at the European market, where demand for diesel alternatives and environmentally conscious vehicles was growing. The B8 Passat itself was a significant model for Volkswagen, building upon the success of previous generations and incorporating the modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform, resulting in a lighter and more versatile vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat Variant (B8) |
| Type (Engine) | GTE 1.4 TSI (218 Hp) DSG Plug-in Hybrid |
| Start of production | October, 2015 |
| End of production | May, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 1.7-1.8 l/100 km (138.4 – 130.7 US mpg, 166.2 – 156.9 UK mpg, 58.8 – 55.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 38-40 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 241 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 9.9 kWh |
| All-electric range | 50 km (31.07 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 12.7-13.2 kWh/100 km (20.44 – 21.24 kWh/100 mi, 165 – 159 MPGe, 7.9 – 7.6 km/kWh, 4.9 – 4.7 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 115 Hp @ 2500 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 330 Nm (243.4 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 218 Hp |
| System torque | 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 111.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) @ 1500-3500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CUKC |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 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 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2250 kg (4960.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 483 l (17.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1613 l (56.96 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 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 | 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 | 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.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7J x 17: 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Passat GTE 1.4 TSI utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain. The core of the system is the CUKC engine, a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 156 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. It features direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger, optimizing both power and efficiency. The engine is paired with an 85kW (115 hp) electric motor, integrated between the engine and the DSG transmission. This configuration allows for both electric-only driving and combined power output of 218 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The electric motor draws power from a 9.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, providing an all-electric range of approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles). The transmission is a 6-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox), known for its quick and smooth shifts. The DSG intelligently manages power delivery from both the engine and the electric motor.
Driving Characteristics
The Passat GTE 1.4 TSI offers a unique driving experience. In electric-only mode, the vehicle provides near-silent acceleration and is ideal for city driving. The instant torque from the electric motor delivers brisk performance. When the gasoline engine engages, the combined power output results in a 0-60 mph time of around 7.2 seconds. The DSG transmission contributes to seamless gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience. Compared to the standard 1.8 TSI Passat Variant, the GTE offers quicker acceleration and a more refined driving experience. However, the added weight of the battery pack and electric motor does slightly impact handling, making it less agile than lighter variants. The GTE’s hybrid system allows for various driving modes, including ‘E-Mode’ (electric only), ‘Hybrid Auto’ and ‘GTE’ (performance-focused), allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience to their needs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GTE trim level was well-equipped, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features included sports seats upholstered in unique GTE-specific fabric, blue stitching accents, and a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel. The infotainment system featured a color touchscreen display with navigation and smartphone integration. Exterior styling cues included distinctive blue accents on the front grille, side skirts, and brake calipers. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and premium sound system. The interior generally featured a dark color scheme with blue accents to highlight the hybrid nature of the vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat GTE utilizes a standard B8 Passat chassis, featuring a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The GTE variant typically featured slightly stiffer springs and dampers compared to standard models to compensate for the added weight. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The regenerative braking system, integrated with the electric motor, helps to recapture energy during deceleration, further enhancing efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat GTE was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, performance, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted the relatively high price compared to other Passat variants. Compared to the 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI models, the GTE offered a more environmentally friendly alternative with comparable performance. The 1.8 TSI was generally more affordable, while the 2.0 TDI offered superior fuel economy on longer journeys. The GTE’s strength lay in its ability to provide both electric-only driving for short commutes and the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer trips.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Passat GTE represented an important step in Volkswagen’s electrification strategy. While not a mass-market success, it paved the way for future plug-in hybrid and fully electric models. The 1.4 TSI engine and DSG transmission combination proved to be relatively reliable, although the hybrid system components, such as the battery pack and electric motor, require specialized maintenance. On the used car market, the Passat GTE holds its value reasonably well, particularly among buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicle. The longevity of the battery pack is a key consideration for potential buyers, as replacement can be a significant expense. Overall, the Passat GTE remains a compelling option for those seeking a practical and technologically advanced plug-in hybrid wagon.
