FastMotoring Motor News In Speed
In Malaysia, Volkswagen Passat 1.8 TSI B7 version was introduced back on October 2011 with fully imported CBU version. Follow by replacing it with locally assembled CKD version back on March 2012. The CKD version is assemble by DRB-Hicom in Pekan, Pahang, Malaysia. Both versions are having the identical specification except for the recent Passat Sportline, which launched back on October this year.
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This 4-door sedan Volkswagen Passat is powered by turbocharged 1.8-litre TSI engine mated with 7-speed DSG transmission. Unfortunately, for this particular model there is no other variants like 220kW V6 4Motion or TDI in Malaysia.
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The current B7 generation of Passat is technically redesigned from the previous B6 generation platform by reshaping all panels except the roof. Apart from that, Volkswagen has added new features and tweaks to improve comfort, efficiency, safety and value. From outside, the car may give you a flat impression but indeed, it is a good car to be considered to buy!
Based on the spec sheet, the 1.8 TSI engine delivering 160PS @ 6,200rpm with a max torque of 250Nm @ 4,200rpm. The acceleration from 0-100km/h is considerably great, which clocked at 8.5 seconds and top speed of 220km/h.
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Regarding the unleaded fuel grade, Volkswagen Group Malaysia (VGM) has listed a minimum RON 95 is required. Based on my normal driving condition, I managed to clock an average of 14.3 km per litre of fuel consumption. Not too bad, isn’t it? The fuel tank capacity is approximately 70 litres, which is good for traveling long distance without stopping for refuel.
Based on the car I tested which clocked less than 8,500km, the 7-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) is smooth when shifting from low to high gear or vice-versa. It gives a sporty feeling while driving.
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For interior, the seats of the Passat come standard in ‘Vienna’ leather upholstery, similar to Golf GTI. The gearshift knob and the 3-spoke steering wheel are leather wrapped as well. The climate control comes with dual zone temperature regulation and indirect ventilation mode.
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Instead of having a handbrake stick, the VW Passat is having an electric parking brake with auto-hold function and hill-hold control, similar to the Passat CC. Anyway, the switch recalled me the parking brake of commercial aircraft.
The audio system is installed with RCD 510 touch screen with MP3 playback, 6-disc CD changer, Media input from mobile devices and 8 speakers. However, this car is lacking of Bluetooth feature with audio streaming, rear view camera and satellite navigation.
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The Passat come with a set of alloy wheels ‘Minneapolis’ wrapped with 235/45 R17 tyres from Continental. The spare is having a steel wheel with full size tyre.
Talking about safety of this car, the list can go on and on! In short, the car comes with curtain airbag system for front and rear passengers are all over including side airbags, front driver and passenger. Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), Electronic Stability control (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with brake assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Engine Drag Torque Control (EDTC), Traction Control System (TCS), Park Distance Control (PDC) and all 3-point seat belts including the rear. Each of the modules is having its own functionality and combined together as a great car with high safety aspect.
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Bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights and dynamic bending light are standard for the Passat 1.8 TSI CKD. Say no more, the automatic rain sensor and lamp sensor are also standard. For those who required a huge boot space, the Passat is going to blow your mind with 565 litres of space.
Despite the performance and features, Volkswagen Passat has attracted more buyers from Honda Accord, Toyota Camry as well from the luxury segment like the Audi A4, BMW 3-series and Mercedes-Benz C-class in Malaysia. Imagine with RM170k for a car, the Japanese rivals are far away from the German in terms of technology and safety at its value for this car.
The new Volkswagen Passat 1.8 TSI CKD is selling in Peninsular Malaysia at RM 170,888.00 excluding registration and inspection fees, road tax, number plate and insurance. All Volkswagen passenger cars in Malaysia are covered by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty with premium roadside assistance.
Photo Gallery: Volkswagen Passat 1.8 TSI B7
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