VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

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BMW 3 SERIES TOURING

The identity of the manufacturer is embodied

The difference in the positioning of the two cars is clear. The Volkswagen Passat is a model that is conscious of maximum usability in everyday life, while the BMW 3 Series Touring is a station wagon that emphasizes sportiness. This is also a difference in brand identity.

Comparing the body size, the Passat is 195mm longer than the 3 Series. The station wagon features a long roof and elegant styling, so the design of the rear is important. The Passat has a long rear, giving it an elegant styling.

The 3 Series Touring has a reduced volume at the rear, giving it a sporty look, and it can be said that the sporty image of the 3 Series has been directly incorporated into the station wagon.

VW Passat eTSI Elegance Basic

Body size = Length 4915mm x Width 1850mm x Height 1500mm

Wheelbase = 2840mm

Vehicle weight = 1570kg

Tire size = 215/55R17

BMW 318i Touring M Sport

Body size = Length 4720mm x Width 1825mm x Height 1450mm

Wheelbase = 2850mm

Vehicle weight = 1610kg

Tire size = 225/45R18

Different approaches to the powertrain

The Passat is equipped with a 1.5-liter inline-four turbo engine, while the 318i Touring is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine. However, the Passat uses a variable geometry turbo, which gives it power and torque that is almost comparable to the 318i Touring’s 2.0-liter turbo. Furthermore, the Passat is a mild hybrid that combines the engine with a motor, which provides powerful assistance when starting. In terms of power performance, it will likely compete well with the 318i Touring.

On the other hand, the transmission and drive system are significantly different. The Passat has a 7-speed DCT, while the 318i Touring has a conventional torque converter 8-speed AT. There may no longer be a significant difference in directness or shock when shifting gears, but the extra gear may affect fuel economy at high speeds. The Passat is front-wheel drive (FWD), while the 318i Touring is rear-wheel drive (RWD).

VW Passat eTSI Elegance Basic

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Turbo

Displacement = 1498cc

Maximum output = 150PS/5000-6000rpm

Maximum torque = 250Nm/1500-3500rpm

Transmission = 7-speed DCT

Drive system = FWD

BMW 318i Touring M Sport

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Turbo

Displacement = 1998cc

Maximum output = 156PS/4500rpm

Maximum torque = 250Nm/1300-4300rpm

Transmission = 8-speed AT

Drive system = RWD

The price difference between the two cars is reasonable.

A Volkswagen Passat, a popular brand, costing over 5 million yen may seem expensive, but considering the recent rise in prices and the weak yen, it may be unavoidable.

On the other hand, the price of the 318i Touring exceeds 6.5 million yen. However, since BMW is a premium brand, this price is probably reasonable. This is because it includes a good driving experience and a variety of luxury equipment that cannot be expressed in the specs.

Vehicle price

VW Passat eTSI Elegance Basic 5,248,000 yen

BMW 3 Series 318i Touring M Sport 6,720,000 yen

Related reading

A comparative test drive of the high-powered 4WD sports wagon “BMW M3 Touring” and “Audi RS 4 Avant”

Want to have it all in one car? A high-powered D-segment wagon is ideal for that purpose. With an easy-to-handle body size, cargo capacity large enough for a trip of four, and speed on par with a super sports car, there’s no doubt that you’ll enjoy your daily life no matter which of the two BMWs or Audi you choose. (Reprinted and re-edited from the August 2023 issue of GENROQ)