With the plug-in hybrid Vw Passat passes the test of fuel consumption and practicality

Over a thousand kilometres to find out whether a plug-in hybrid car is finally convenient to use even when travelling with a flat battery. This was the main question during our test of the Volkswagen Passat plug-in hybrid, tested in the 204-horsepower version in Business trim. An ideal configuration for the fleet world, unlike the more powerful 272-horsepower version, the Passat proved to be the ideal companion during long motorway transfers or when putting load capacity to the test with a boot capacity of 510 litres. Completely renewed from the past, it is now only a station wagon and has lengthened by a good 14 centimetres to 4.92 metres.

All new on board as well, where the large 15-inch screen (optional) in the centre of the dashboard stands out from where the efficient infotainment system can be operated and the physical buttons on the steering wheel are appreciated; shame about the air conditioning which is still touch-sensitive.

On the road we find the answer to the initial question: the 1.5 Tsi engine with 204 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, combined with the real 19.7 kWh battery and the Dsg gearbox, ensures derisory consumption (0.4 l/100 km declared) when full of energy and even when travelling 'empty' the averages are diesel engine-like. If performance is good, 8.1" from 0 to 100 km/h supported by good overall dynamics, consumption is excellent: with a flat battery we managed 20 km per litre in extra-urban driving. Rechargeable up to 50 kW in direct current, it claims 113 km in electric mode.

The Adas equipment on the Business trim was also praised, as the LED matrix IQ Light headlamps helped us in low-visibility night driving.

Everything positive? No. The increase in size has made the Passat less manoeuvrable in traffic and especially when looking for parking. Price from 57,300 euros.