Larger 2012 VW Passat TDI Brings Style and 43 MPG « New and Used Car Listings

Larger 2012 VW Passat TDI Brings Style and 43 MPG

Volkswagen’s enduring diesel presence in the U.S. continues with its latest model to champion turbo direct injection (TDI) clean diesel technology, the all-new 2012 Passat TDI. What’s important to mid-size sedan buyers – and there are lots of them out there – is this model’s expected 43 mpg highway fuel efficiency and a single tank driving range of up to 800 miles. If that doesn’t get the interest of highway commuters then we’re simply at a loss for words.

The powerplant that brings hybrid-like fuel efficiency to the Passat is VW’s outstanding 2.0-liter clean diesel engine, the same quiet TDI four-cylinder that powers the VW Golf and Jetta TDI models – the latter Green Car Journal’s 2009 Green Car of the Year®.

While VW does offer 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.6-liter VR6 gasoline engines in its new Passat sedan, there’s no doubt in our mind that the 2.0-liter TDI offers the best of all worlds … high fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions plus loads of low-end torque to lend a performance feel. Plus, The TDI engine is equipped with a NOx storage catalytic converter to reduce oxides of nitrogen emissions and meet stringent 50 state emissions requirements.

Exterior styling blends VW signature influences in a clean and sophisticated mid-size package. The Passat now features a 191.7 inch length and sits on a 110.4 inch wheelbase.

This longer wheelbase brings a noticeably more spacious rear passenger area with best-in-class legroom. An eight way adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, climate control, power windows, insulating glass, and an MP3-capable stereo system with CD and Bluetooth are standard fare.

The 2012 VW Passat has yet to receive an official price tag, but is expected to come in with a base price of around $20,000 when it goes on sale later this year.