2010 Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDi (Old)

The Passat has moved the game forward with its new common-rail engine which simply outclasses similar engines in key areas like performance, refinement and efficiency

Published on Sep 14, 2009 07:00:00 AM

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The 16-valve, 138bhp, 2-litre turbo-diesel provides adequate punch, especially in the mid-range where the torque flows in thick and fast though there is a bit of lag initially. The Passat’s new common-rail diesel motor is very smooth with a more linear power delivery. It has a broader powerband, almost pulling to 5000rpm and the motor doesn’t run out of steam completely at the top either.

What’s truly impressive is the refinement of the Passat’s common-rail engine. There’s none of the slightly muffled pneumatic drill-like PD clatter, something we had factored into the character of the earlier car. The motor revs smoothly and is almost inaudible when the car is cruising and this adds to overall comfort levels.

The Passat’s more linear power delivery also plays to its advantage because you’re not always mashing the throttle, waiting for the engine to respond. In the city cycle, the Passat gave 10kpl and 13.8kpl on the highway.