Other Volkswagen Passat (2015 - 2024) models:

Volkswagen Passat Saloon (2015 - 2021) 1.4 TSI GTE 4d DSG Owner Review

1.4 TSI GTE 4d DSG
2020 Volkswagen Passat front view

Want to know everything there is to know about this car?

In their own words

Plug-in hybrid only averages about 15 miles on battery when driven gently. Only really suitable if your daily commute is extremely short. Petrol consumption in hybrid mode is not exceptional either - upper 40s for mpg. I was really looking forward to getting this car, but the failure to live up to the marketing claims has really taken the shine off the product. Extremely poor sales and after-sales experience from Volkswagen - this has combined with the disappointing range to really put me off buying the same brand again.

How reliable do you find the car?

Mechanically reliable (so far), but have returned the car once already due to very poor electric range. Garage advised that there's nothing wrong. Also had some interior trim break / fall off in first four weeks of ownership.

Does the car do everything you expected it to do?

Car was nicely equipped and finished, however I've been thoroughly disappointed in the electric range. It's officially capable of "up to 31 miles" on the battery. Sadly, the battery normally only manages about 17 miles before it dies (can be as low as 13 on a cold day with the heater on), which means it never completes the return leg of my 10-mile commute or manages domestic shopping trips entirely on electricity. Watching the claimed range plummet despite gentle driving is a very depressing experience and makes the car a perpetual disappointment to drive.
  • How they rated it

  • Reliability: 3 out of 5 3.0
  • Meets Expectations: 2 out of 5 2.0
  • Overall Rating: 2 out of 5 2.0
  • David doesn't recommend this car

About their car

  • Fuel type Petrol Parallel PHEV
  • When purchased February 2017
  • Condition when bought New
  • Current Mileage 1,000 miles
  • Average MPG 46 mpg