Volkswagen Passat 2.0litre TDI 2006 review

Other models command a premium but the diesel is an unusual entry point to the Passat range.

That's goods news in these times of increasing fuel prices because it's going to drive your dollar further, a lot further. It's the same 2.0-litre turbocharged common rail unit found in Golf, Jetta and their Audi counterparts - and it's a ripper.

• Four cylinder, 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel delivers 103kW of power at 4000rpm and 320Nm of torque from a low 1750rpm.
• V6 and turbocharged four cylinder petrol variants are also available, but are more expensive.
• The high torque figure is significant because its the stuff that makes driving a breeze. Diesels deliver more torque than larger capacity petrol engines and at lower engine revs, which is a reason they use less fuel.
• Top speed is 206km/h and the TDI can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 9.8 seconds. That's brisk but slower on both counts than either petrol variant.
• Volkswagen's advanced six-speed DSG auto is standard, albeit without steering wheel change buttons. It employs two clutches for faster gear changes and is ideal for use with the diesel.
• Claimed fuel consumption for the diesel engine is 6.6L/100km. We got 7.2L during testing but didn't get a chance to empty the 70-litre tank.
• Our test car looks a million bucks, finished in black with gleaming chrome highlights. Optional beige leather upholstery is fitted, along with walnut wood inserts. We'd happily give the walnut a miss but the overall effect is certainly classy, a car that looks more expensive than it actually is.
• Given the car's increased size, fuel ef- ficiency and comprehensive equipment list, you'd be mad not to give it a look. More compact cars with fuel efficient engines are the way of the future.
• We think the Passat's 2.0-litre TDI engine is one the best around. But we have to admit that it feels a bit noisier and coarser that we remember. Maybe the opposition is just getting better?
• Not quite as nippy as the turbocharged petrol engined car that we drove recently, but still so much better in more important ways. Offers strong mid-range performance and easy high- way cruising.
• Suspension is firm as is the Euro norm. Drive is through the front wheels, with plenty of electronic gizmos to keep it attached to the road.
• Safety is uppermost. Passat gets a five-star Euro safety rating. It comes with ABS, eight airbags, active front head restraints and electronic stability control as standard.
• Standard equipment includes dual zone climate control, premium audio, 17in alloys including the spare, multi-function steering wheel and cruise control.

VERDICT:

Explore the 2006 Volkswagen Passat Range

Volkswagen Passat 2.0litre TDI 2006 review Volkswagen Passat wagon 2006 review

Classy effort. TDI is a hands down winner with the way fuel prices are going. Priced from $42,990 it is a sophisticated car that offers state of the art technology in a practical easy to use package.