May 30, 2016 12:02 PM
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In a new world where we are genuinely scared at the prospect of running out of fossil fuels, no other alternative means of energy has truly been able to proclaim itself as its worthy successor and the answer to all our prayers. Electric energy is almost getting there, but they still are constrained by range limitations and the sheer weight of rechargeable batteries. Therefore, as a half-way measure, at least for now, hybrids are the way to go. The Volkswagen Passat GTE that we have here is just that.
At first glance, the Passat GTE, with its unassuming family sedan looks, isn’t exactly what you’d expect a cutting edge powertrain to sit in. But make no mistake, the plug-in hybrid setup underneath its hood is what will spearhead the change towards a greener tomorrow, if for nothing else, then just because it is so accessible to the common consumerThe engine is the big centrepiece here so let’s get to it first. As with the Golf GTE, the Passat combines a 1.4 TSI petrol engine offering 155PS of power and 250Nm of torque with an electric motor to send a total of 218PS and 400Nm through a seven-speed DSG box.
Due to the batteries, motor, cables and cooling system, the Passat GTE weighs 280kg more than the 1.4 TSI Passat, but can also travel in electric-only mode for 50 kilometres up to 130 kmph between four-hour charges.Four driving modes are on offer: Hybrid, Battery Charge, GTE, and the aforementioned electric-only E-mode. In the GTE mode, the petrol and electric motor work in unison to provide a claimed 0-100 kmph time of 7.6sec and a top speed of 225 kmph. GTE mode also sharpens the throttle, firms up the steering, gearbox, and the optional damper settings for a more involving drive. Fully charged, Volkswagen says the Passat GTE boasts a theoretical range of up to 1000 kilometres, and a combined fuel consumption figure of around 70 kmpl.
