Volkswagen has lifted the wraps off the Passat GTE plug-in hybrid prior to its international unveiling at the Paris Motor Show next week.
The Passat GTE is the third model from the Wolfsburg-based brand to feature plug-in hybrid technology after the sporty XL1 coupe and Golf GTE. Based on the eighth generation model, the Passat GTE will be available in Europe in both saloon and wagon variants when it goes in sale during the second half of 2015.
Visually, the Passat GTE is distinguishable by the blue accents on its grille, c-shaped DRLs, unique front bumper and GTE badges on the front fenders.
The Passat GTE is powered by company’s turbocharged 1,4-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor that’s powered by a 9,9 kWh lithium-ion battery. Together, the two motors produce 160 kW and 400 N.m of torque. A six-speed dual-clutch transmission helps keep the average fuel consumption to just 2,0 litres/100 km and 13.0 kWh/100 km, which means a total range of 1000 km with a full tank (50 litres) of fuel and a fully-charged battery.
VW claims that the Passate GTE is capable of a 0-100 km/h sprint of less than 8,0 seconds, while its top speed nudges 220 km/h.
It’s unlikely to reach South Africa anytime soon though.
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