What a great combination of technology here. With Volkswagen halting production on the Routan, maybe that will give them an idea of what not to do and what to bring to the states, like this or the true VW MVTouran w/ fuel cell technology.
Volkswagen is expanding its offer for the Passat at the beginning of the year 2009. The Passat TSI EcoFuel is available to order immediately with the 6-speed manual gearbox or alternatively with the innovative dual clutch gearbox DSG. This Passat is currently, in combination with the DSG gear box, the only model in the mid-class that achieves an emissions value of 119 g/km.
- For the first time, natural gas drive combines with Volkswagen TSI technology
- Significant reduction of CO2 emissions down to 119 g/km
- Available to order from 29,975 Euro
The combination of the natural gas drive system and the turbo direct-injection system in the Passat TSI EcoFuel is unique in the world. This advantageously combines fuel efficiency and dynamics. A moderate consumption of up to 4.4 kg of natural gas over 100 km (with DSG) and a 31-litre petrol tank result in a maximum driving range of over 900 kilometres. The achieved emissions value of 119 g/km sets a milestone in the mid-class.
The 1.4 litre engine generates 110 kW / 150 PS. With both gearbox variants, powerful 220 newton metres of torque in a range of 1,500 to 4,500 rpm are available. The dynamic performance figures achieved were previously unknown for natural-gas vehicles: acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 9.8 seconds (Passat estate: 9.9 seconds).
The engine has specially been developed and optimised for the permanent use of natural gas: modified components, for example, valves, pistons or the engine management system, have been designed for the differing requirements of the natural gas engine. In conjunction with the reduced fuel duty, which has been set until 2018, it offers considerable advantages in regard to running costs compared to petrol engines.
The Passat TSI EcoFuel is available to order immediately and may be combined with the three equipment lines Trendline, Comfortline and Highline as well as other options. Prices start at 29,975 € for the saloon.”
