The 2014 Volkswagen Passat TSI offers a compelling blend of style, comfort, and performance in the mid-size sedan segment. Known for its TDI diesel engines, Volkswagen also provides a gasoline option with the TSI engine, broadening its appeal to a wider range of drivers. This review delves into the features and driving experience of the 2014 Passat TSI.
The Passat TSI’s exterior boasts a sleek and sporty design, with a subtle roofline that maintains a conservative yet modern aesthetic. The 17-inch alloy wheels complement the car’s overall appearance, adding a touch of sophistication. The Night Blue Metallic exterior paint combined with the Cornsilk Beige Vienna Leather interior creates a striking contrast, enhancing the Passat’s visual appeal.
The interior features dual leather and suede seats, providing both comfort and a sporty feel. The suede center panels prevent slipping and sliding, ensuring a comfortable driving experience even in warm weather. The contrasting color scheme of the dark exterior and light interior adds a touch of elegance to the cabin.
Volkswagen’s user-friendly infotainment system, particularly the navigation, is a standout feature. The intuitive interface allows for easy destination input and route guidance without requiring significant driver distraction. The dashboard layout is simple and well-organized, providing access to various controls without feeling overwhelming.
Under the hood, the 2014 Passat TSI houses a 1.8L four-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic and sport mode. This powertrain delivers smooth acceleration and responsive performance, with minimal turbo lag. The Passat maintains composure at highway speeds, offering a comfortable and confident driving experience. Even in congested city traffic, the car remains maneuverable and easy to handle. Despite encountering heavy construction during the test drive, the cabin remained remarkably quiet, effectively isolating occupants from external noise.
Fuel efficiency is commendable for a mid-size sedan. The Passat TSI is rated at 8.6L/100km in the city and 5.8L/100km on the highway. During the test week, a combined fuel consumption of 6.8L/100km was achieved.
While the 2014 Volkswagen Passat TSI offers a well-rounded package, it lacks certain features found in some competitors, such as blind-spot monitoring, ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. Key rivals include the Honda Accord, Mazda6, Kia Optima, and Toyota Camry. However, the Passat boasts a significant advantage with its generous rear legroom, providing ample space for passengers.
The 2014 Volkswagen Passat TSI proves to be a versatile and well-executed sedan, suitable for both families and individuals. Its combination of style, comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency makes it a strong contender in its class. While lacking some premium features, the Passat’s spacious interior and refined driving experience make it a worthwhile option for those seeking a comfortable and reliable mid-size sedan. The TSI engine offers a compelling alternative to the TDI diesel engine, further expanding the Passat’s appeal.
