The venerable Volkswagen Passat has been reborn for the electric age, but this latest iteration comes with a decidedly premium price tag. Now exclusively offered as an estate, the new Passat, particularly in its plug-in hybrid eHybrid guise, blends impressive electric-only range with traditional practicality, though it asks buyers to dig deep into their pockets.
A Contemporary Powertrain with Impressive Electric Capability
At the heart of the Passat eHybrid is a 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a sizeable 19.7kWh battery. Volkswagen offers two power outputs: 204hp or 272hp, capable of 0-62mph in 8.1 and 7.1 seconds respectively. For most, the standard version will be more than sufficient, as this car prioritises refinement over outright performance.
The standout feature is its electric range. Volkswagen claims up to 77 miles on a full charge, with real-world daily driving likely to yield well over 50 miles. The car defaults to EV mode when battery charge permits, meaning overnight charging can cover most commutes on electricity alone. Once depleted, it switches seamlessly to hybrid mode, still reserving enough charge for quiet urban driving.
Charging is a strong suit. 50kW DC rapid-charging is standard, allowing a 10-80% top-up in just 23 minutes. An 11kW onboard AC charger also maximises home wallbox charging speeds.
Spacious, Tech-Laden Cabin with a Practical Compromise
Measuring over 4.9 metres long, this is the biggest Passat yet. The interior is exceptionally spacious, with 50mm more rear legroom than its predecessor, creating a limousine-like feel for back-seat passengers. The driving position is highly adjustable, and top-spec models even feature climate-controlled massage seats.
The dashboard is logically laid out, featuring Volkswagen's latest infotainment system. The 12.9-inch touchscreen (with a 15-inch option) has a more intuitive interface and includes ChatGPT integration for improved voice control. A column-mounted gearshifter frees up console space.
Practicality, however, involves a trade-off. While the eHybrid's boot offers a useful 520 litres, this is 160 litres less than the non-hybrid Passat due to the battery placement. Folding the rear seats liberates 1,770 litres of load space.
Premium Price and Strong Competition
The Passat's biggest hurdle is its cost. The eHybrid model starts from almost £45,000, with the popular R-Line trim nearing £49,000. The more powerful 272hp version pushes the price over £50,000, venturing into the territory of rivals like the plug-in hybrid BMW 3 Series Touring.
It also faces stiff competition from within the Volkswagen Group from the more affordable Skoda Superb iV, and from new entrants like the BYD Seal 6 DM-i Touring from China.
On the road, the Passat is secure, sensible, and refined. The ride can be firm, though adaptive suspension on R-Line models helps. Its eight-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
The verdict? The latest Volkswagen Passat eHybrid is a compelling, spacious, and technologically advanced estate car with a genuinely useful electric range. It successfully modernises a classic nameplate. However, its near-premium pricing requires careful consideration against its talented and often less expensive rivals.
