VW Passat Estate 2.0 TDI

If Hyundai is setting out to win over customers with the upmarket appeal of the i40, the Volkswagen Passat is the car to beat. Although it’s never been the most exciting choice, a solid design, desirable badge and classy image have given the VW a stronghold in the family sector.

The sober angular lines are well suited to an estate body, and the load carrier is easier on the eye than the saloon. Its simple shape and glossy black grille are the epitome of understatement, in contrast to the i40’s sporty profile.

The Passat has the shortest wheelbase of our trio, and the interior feels a little small in comparison to its rivals. This lack of space is most obvious in the back, where legroom is in short supply after a ride in its limousine-like rivals. There’s still enough room for a pair of adults to sit in comfort, though.

We have few complaints regarding boot space, as the Passat’s 603-litre load area is only 30 litres smaller than the Superb’s. Also, the rear seat bases tumble forward to provide a flat floor when you fold the backs (although you do have to remove the headrests to do this).

Traditionally, the VW’s cabin has stood out as something special. Thanks to its compact executive aspirations, the Passat used to rank ahead of its mainstream rivals, but this is no longer the case. You won’t be disappointed by the classy fixtures and fittings, although they won’t leave you speechless, either.

The smart design, classy instruments and multifunction steering wheel all impress, while metal trim and a traditional analogue clock add a touch of class to the dashboard. In SE trim, buyers get a DAB radio, electrically adjustable seats and Bluetooth connectivity, but the VW still doesn’t come with as many goodies as the Hyundai.

Performance is firmly on a par with the i40, however. The established 138bhp 2.0-litre TDI engine has a slender 4bhp power advantage over the newcomer, while performance is aided by the fact the Passat weighs 88kg less, at 1,560kg.

At the track, it covered 0-60mph six-tenths faster than the i40, in a time of 10 seconds flat, although it was fractionally behind during our in-gear tests. On the road, the punchy nature of the TDI engine means you’re never short of pace, and the BlueMotion Technology kit ensures strong efficiency.  

In corners, the Passat is hard to fault. It’s tauter and more accurate than the i40, and the steering has a weightier and more natural feel. There’s also less roll and more grip than in the Hyundai, and the ride strikes a good balance between comfort and composure.

It’s not as engaging to drive as the Skoda, but that doesn’t detract from the Passat’s all-round appeal. Solid, upmarket and dependable – it’s a stern rival for even the best newcomer.

Details

Chart position: 3
WHY: Premium image and solid reputation, built over many years, mark out Passat. BlueMotion kit provides efficiency and performance.