Longest EV Mode Range in Japan

Introduced to Japan in July 2015became8th Generation Passatin its domestic lineup, the PHEV model "Passat GTE" has been added. The saloon model "Passat GTE" and the station wagon "Passat GTE Variant" are being introduced simultaneously. This is the second PHEV model in the Volkswagen Japan lineup, following the "Golf GTE" released last September.

The powertrain for the Passat GTE combines a 1.4-liter TSI gasoline engine producing 156ps with an electric motor delivering 116ps. The gasoline engine is equipped with "BlueMotion Technology," which includes both an idling stop function and a brake energy regeneration system. This is paired with a 6-speed DSG incorporating three clutches specifically developed for PHEV use.

The drive battery is a 9.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, which is characteristic of PHEV models and can be charged externally. The "EV mode," which runs solely on this battery, offers a range of 51.7 km. This figure is said to be the longest among PHEVs sold in Japan. Furthermore, in EV mode, the vehicle can reach a maximum speed of 130 km/h using only the electric motor.

In "Hybrid mode," the vehicle is driven by the engine and electric motor, achieving a fuel efficiency of 21.4 km/l. The "GTE mode," a highlight of the GTE series, maximizes the power of both the engine and electric motor, delivering a 0-100 km/h acceleration of 7.4 seconds.

The exterior and interior feature blue accents to differentiate them from other models. Blue accents are visible on the LED headlights extending to the upper radiator grille, and on the C-shaped LED lamps. Similarly, the interior boasts GTE-exclusive leather steering wheel and shift knob with blue stitching.

Safety features are also comprehensive, with all vehicles equipped as standard with all-around advanced safety systems such as traffic jam assist and adaptive cruise control to prevent accidents.

Additionally, the "GTE Advance," an upper grade available for both wagon and sedan models, is equipped with the "Active Info Display" digital instrument cluster, head-up display, surround view camera, parking assist system, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Body colors include "Pure White," "Deep Black Pearl Effect," "Tungsten Silver Metallic," "Harvard Blue Metallic," and the optional "Oryx White Mother-of-Pearl Effect," totaling five colors.

Prices range from 5,199,000 yen to 5,799,000 yen for the "Passat GTE," and from 5,399,000 yen to 5,999,000 yen for the "Passat GTE Variant."

The price of the "Golf GTE" has also been revised. It is now 4,690,000 yen, a reduction of 300,000 yen from the previous price of 4,990,000 yen. Concurrently, the subsidy amount for the FY2016 Clean Energy Vehicle Introduction Promotion Measures has been lowered from 380,000 yen to 95,000 yen.

Volkswagen Passat GTE
Body Size | Length 4,785 x Width 1,830 x Height 1,470 mm
(Advance) Length 4,785 x Width 1,830 x Height 1,460 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,720 kg
Engine | Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Intercooler Turbo
Displacement | 1,394 cc
Max Output | 115 kW (156 ps) / 5,000-6,000 rpm
Max Torque | 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) / 1,500-3,500 rpm
Motor Rated Output | 55 kW
Motor Max Output | 85 kW (116 ps)
Motor Max Torque | 330 Nm (33.6 kgm)
Price | 5,199,000 yen (Advance) 5,799,000 yen

Volkswagen Passat GTE Variant
Body Size | Length 4,775 x Width 1,830 x Height 1,510 mm
(Advance) Length 4,785 x Width 1,830 x Height 1,500 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,770 kg
Engine | Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Intercooler Turbo
Displacement | 1,394 cc
Max Output | 115 kW (156 ps) / 5,000-6,000 rpm
Max Torque | 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) / 1,500-3,500 rpm
Motor Rated Output | 55 kW
Motor Max Output | 85 kW (116 ps)
Motor Max Torque | 330 Nm (33.6 kgm)
Price | 5,399,000 yen (Advance) 5,999,000 yen