When it comes to engine capacity, we have always been accustomed to the bigger being the better. The numeric tagged to the moniker (most appearances in German offerings) too commands its status among its stablemates.
But with carmakers in the race of engine-downsizing to pledge their commitment in saving mother Earth, it seems that buyers are less concerned about cylindrical volume. Instead, power figures and sprint timings are receiving more attention.
Renowned for its force-induced shrink-size engines, Volkswagen is no stranger in this field, as it proves its expertise by sliding a 1.4-litre workhorse under the hood of its large family sedan -the Passat.
Exterior
The Passat is made known for its no-frills approach to daily commuting. With the CC '4-door coupe' departing from the Passat lineup to become a standalone model, aimed at a more individualistic audience, the mainstream sedan stood by its traditional approach, keeping its conventional dimensions and proportions which gives a predictably less-exciting image.
Little has changed from the Passat 1.8 TSI we tested mid last year. The edgier headlamps, akin to those found on the rest of the lineup, endow the Passat with the up-to-date, modernistic looks. The rump too, takes on the familiar-looking quad taillamps.
But with carmakers in the race of engine-downsizing to pledge their commitment in saving mother Earth, it seems that buyers are less concerned about cylindrical volume. Instead, power figures and sprint timings are receiving more attention.
Renowned for its force-induced shrink-size engines, Volkswagen is no stranger in this field, as it proves its expertise by sliding a 1.4-litre workhorse under the hood of its large family sedan -the Passat.
Exterior
The Passat is made known for its no-frills approach to daily commuting. With the CC '4-door coupe' departing from the Passat lineup to become a standalone model, aimed at a more individualistic audience, the mainstream sedan stood by its traditional approach, keeping its conventional dimensions and proportions which gives a predictably less-exciting image.
Little has changed from the Passat 1.8 TSI we tested mid last year. The edgier headlamps, akin to those found on the rest of the lineup, endow the Passat with the up-to-date, modernistic looks. The rump too, takes on the familiar-looking quad taillamps.
Differentiating between the variants, otherwise, are left to the chrome strip connecting the front fog-lamps and 'TSI' badge on the boot lid (the 1.4 comes without both of them). The base variant also comes with 16-inch alloys - not helping the less-purposeful stance when compared to its stylish CC compatriot.
On the inside, the Passat looks neatly furnished with the right bits of functionality. It aces with metallic trims spanning across and vertically along the dashboard, providing a good contrast in both colours and feel. The trims in leather and quality plastic exude a contemporary feel - one that is seldom felt in base variants.
Looks aside, the Passat boasts an impressive array of electronic niceties. Most notable and handy for local use are the front ventilated seats and Park Assist. Comparing to the 1.8-litre variant, the base model lacks the in-built navigation system and reverse camera. In its place, the all-round distance sensor with proximity display fills in the functional gap adeptly.
Looks aside, the Passat boasts an impressive array of electronic niceties. Most notable and handy for local use are the front ventilated seats and Park Assist. Comparing to the 1.8-litre variant, the base model lacks the in-built navigation system and reverse camera. In its place, the all-round distance sensor with proximity display fills in the functional gap adeptly.
Generous allowance in the cabin is where the accomplished family sedan is put to shine. Conventional sedan-styling ensures that the Passat still seats three adults comfortably at the rear, with more-than-adequate head and leg rooms. The horizontally-bolstered seats wrapped in full leather complete the classy image of the cabin.
The pronounced boot takes care of the utility aspect of daily commutes - with a respectable 565 litres to work with, further expandable with fold-flat rear seats. It too comes with the 'easy open' function, which allows the boot release mechanism to be operated with a flick of your foot.
The pronounced boot takes care of the utility aspect of daily commutes - with a respectable 565 litres to work with, further expandable with fold-flat rear seats. It too comes with the 'easy open' function, which allows the boot release mechanism to be operated with a flick of your foot.
The gem of this variant lies underneath the hood - a 1.4-litre power-plant which packs the firm’s direct injection and force-induction technologies. With a single turbocharger boasting 200Nm of torque from as low as 1,500 revs, and mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, the Passat feels effortless when engaged in aspirated manoeuvres.
The downside is the DSG gearbox's notchy swops in lower gears, most apparent in start-stop traffic. While it causes an unsettling feel to the cabin, it is never nerve-breaking to any extent.
Driven over imperfect tarmac, the Passat takes the bumps well in its stride. While catering for creature comforts, the sedan does not lose its composure in such situations, earning its keep as a refined family cruiser.
The downside is the DSG gearbox's notchy swops in lower gears, most apparent in start-stop traffic. While it causes an unsettling feel to the cabin, it is never nerve-breaking to any extent.
Driven over imperfect tarmac, the Passat takes the bumps well in its stride. While catering for creature comforts, the sedan does not lose its composure in such situations, earning its keep as a refined family cruiser.
While the Passat aces in providing a genuinely pleasant experience for the family, one could be left wanting more at the helm. The steering is precise, but without the involvement delivered by close rivals such as the Ford Mondeo; making the Passat a less-interesting car to pilot.
Conclusion
In 1.4 TSI guise, the Passat is as accomplished as its larger brethrens, more so if you consider the tax savings it would garner on our local shores. The car is also commendable for its potent drivetrain - even when left to handle the heft of the large sedan, the 1.4 TSI does not feel strained as one would expect of a small engine.
No doubt it lacks the flair and driving-involvement found in counterparts and rivals alike, being prim and proper has its own merits. In practicality terms for instance, is where the Passat truly shines.
Conclusion
In 1.4 TSI guise, the Passat is as accomplished as its larger brethrens, more so if you consider the tax savings it would garner on our local shores. The car is also commendable for its potent drivetrain - even when left to handle the heft of the large sedan, the 1.4 TSI does not feel strained as one would expect of a small engine.
No doubt it lacks the flair and driving-involvement found in counterparts and rivals alike, being prim and proper has its own merits. In practicality terms for instance, is where the Passat truly shines.
