2004 Volkswagen Passat Diesel

2004 Volkswagen Passat Diesel
Tom Collins
The Auto Answerman
KEZW Radio
Denver

Vehicle Type: Front Wheel Drive Sedan/Wagon
Prices: Starting at $23,635 (GL) GLS Higher

Pros:
Fuel Economy
Long Cruising Range
Handling
Upscale Interiors
Reduced Maintenance

Cons:
Lacks Zip of Gas models
More Noise & Vibrations

Overview:
The high cost of gasoline has turned the spotlight back on fuel-efficient vehicles and gas-powered alternatives. Hybrids like the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic have seen an upsurge in popularity as gasoline prices linger around the $2.00 per gallon range. Expect to see more of these part-gasoline part-electric vehicles in the near future including SUV’s from Ford and Lexus. But what of Diesel Power? It’s been scorned in the past due to the diesel’s inherent noise and black smoke.

The TDI Engine:
VW engineers have done an excellent job of addressing the above concerns. The 2-liter 4-cylinder TDI is the cleanest burning and most environmentally friendly diesel ever built by Volkswagen. Cam-driven high-pressure injectors atomize fuel instantly for a cleaner and more efficient combustion. The result is lower emissions and improved fuel economy. Power is enhanced with a better breathing 16 valve cylinder head and improved turbo-charging/intercooler technology. The result is 134 Horsepower at 4,000 RPM and an impressive 247 pound-feet of torque at 1900 RPM. Fuel economy is listed at 27 City and 38 on the open road.

On the Road:
I drove both the Sedan and Wagon with the TDI coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission. I had the opportunity to take the Sedan on an out of town jaunt and got nearly 40 MPG on one tank. Fill the Passat’s 16.4-gallon fuel tank and this car will cruise a bladder-busting 600 plus miles. Few cars on the road will out-cruise the TDI Passat including the Prius and Civic hybrids. Power is good and the 247 pound-feet of torque moves the Passat off the line with authority. Having said that, the 1.8 gas turbo engine has more zip resulting in a more fun driving experience.

Handling/Ride:
Auto Answerman listeners have long -heard my praise for the Passat. I love the way this car drives and the Diesel versions are no exception. The Germans seem to have the magic touch when it comes to blending the best of handling and ride. The Passat just feels solid and planted to the road in a way that few cars can match. The steering has a precise, direct feel that inspires driver confidence both on the open road and in mountain driving. Braking is secure and smooth. The sedan and wagon drive very much alike although the wagons added weight takes a slight toll in performance and fuel economy. Electronic Stability is a optional on GLS models.

On the inside:
VW pretty much leads the industry when it comes to interiors. Gauges are easy to read, controls logical and seating comfortable. The rich-looking materials give the Passat a much more expensive feel. You will detect some diesel clatter and a slight vibration at idle but once underway you’ll soon forget you are driving a diesel powered car.

Conclusions:
VW makes a strong case for diesel technology with the Passat. It’s a high-tech car that puts to rest many of the enviromental concerns of the past. In addition to high fuel economy, diesel engines provide excellent power and reliability with reduced maintenance. Traditional tune-ups are pretty much a thing of the past with this car. Of course, diesel is a cheaper fuel than gasoline further reducing cost per-mile expense. Recent repair data has shown that Hybrid cars have had more problems than their gasoline powered siblings. Hybrid technology is rapidly improving and the data used in the report I read was for cars 3 years old and older so put it into perspective. I do not believe repair or maintenance issues should be a negative factor in the rapidly improving hybrid technology.

I believe the Passat TDI merits your serious consideration. It’s got more going for it in terms of comfort and day-to-day versatility In short, it’s more of a traditional car than the hybrids. I have not driven the new Prius but Civic hybrid I tested last year was impressive. Having said that, I would be inclined to choose the Passat because of it’s driving dynamics and well-appointed interior. You’ll find more on the Passat at www.vw.com

Tom Collins
August 3, 2004