Volkswagen ’s BlueMotion line of high-efficiency vehicles has always focused on maximising economy from conventional powertrains rather than hi-tech hybrid systems, and the new model takes this to the next level.
Toyota’s new Priushas seen off all of its hybrid challengers in our group tests so far, but it’s facing a different kind of eco-focused competitor here.
’s BlueMotion line of high-efficiency vehicles has always focused on maximising economy from conventional powertrains rather than hi-tech hybrid systems, and the new model takes this to the next level. VW claims the 1.6-litre turbodiesel Passatemits 95g/km of CO2, although this is still some way behind the Prius’ 70g/km output. But while the German brand’s reputation took a hit after the Dieselgate scandal, you can’t write off this diesel car.
The BlueMotion’s impressive frugality means it shines on longer journeys, yet it should also return impressive economy figures around town. Being a hybrid, the Toyota is at its best in specific circumstances, but that doesn’t mean it’s out of its depth as a family car or a business vehicle; this new model promises better fuel economy than ever. Here, we see which type of car is more economical and makes more sense day-to-day.
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Head-to-head
Aerodynamics
Reducing drag is an effective way of improving efficiency. The VW has a closed-off grille and a bespoke bodykit, while the Prius’ intricate shape manages the airflow over the car in the cleanest path possible. Features like the rubber strip between the bonnet and bumper further reduce turbulence, with a decent drag coefficient of 0.24Cd.
Refinement
Volkswagen’s diesel is noisy when revved hard, while firmer suspension means there’s some road noise at higher speeds. Toyota has worked hard on its hybrid powertrain to cut decibels, helped by double-glazed windows. However, there is lots of tyre roar on motorways.
Saloon vs hatch
The Toyota doesn’t offer as much boot space as the Passat, but its big hatch makes it easier to load than the VW saloon with its smaller opening. With the rear seats down, a big load-through area boosts the Prius’ flexibility further – a bonus in a family car.
Verdict
First place: Toyota Prius
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The Prius’ design won’t be to everyone’s taste, but there’s no denying it looks and feels a lot more distinctive than the Passat. However, the big benefit comes from its hybrid powertrain, delivering useful savings over the conventionally powered Volkswagen. The smooth ride and capable chassis mean it’s also good to drive, and now more refined than ever.
Second place: Volkswagen Passat
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The Passat’s lower fuel economy and higher CO2 emissions mean it can’t compete with the Prius. It’ll be more expensive to run as a result, with higher servicing costs and greater depreciation. The VWis roomier inside and provides a bigger boot in five-seat form, but the Toyota is just as practical and a more efficient solution for day-to-day use.
Is it worth waiting for this model?
Due: Late 2016
Price: £30k (est)
Engine: 1.8-litre 4cyl hybrid, 118bhp (est)
Toyotaclaims its new Prius Plug-Inwill return 202mpg and emit 32g/km of CO2. Pricing hasn’t been revealed, but it’ll cost more than the standard car, as it takes efficiency to the next level.
Figures Toyota Prius 1.8 VVT-i Active Volkswagen Passat 1.6 TDI BlueMotion On-the-road price/total as tested £23,295/£24,540 £23,530/£25,605 Residual value (after 3yrs/30,000) £11,349/48.7% £10,951/46.5% Depreciation £11,946 £12,579 Annual tax liability std/higher rate £511/£1,023 £892/£1,784 Annual fuel cost (12k/20k miles) £981/£1,636 £1,156/£1,927 Ins. group/quote/road tax band/cost 14/£569/A/£0 15/£564/A/£0 Cost of 1st/2nd/3rd service £169/£219/£169 £16 per month Length/wheelbase 4,540/2,700mm 4,767/2,791mm Height/width 1,470/1,760mm 1,456/1,832mm Engine Elec motor/4cyl/1,798cc 4cyl in-line/1,598cc Peak power 121^/5,200 bhp/rpm 118/3,600 bhp/rpm Peak torque 142/3,600 Nm/rpm 250/1,750 Nm/rpm Transmission CVT/fwd 6-spd man/fwd Fuel tank capacity/spare wheel 43 litres/space-saver 59 litres/space-saver Boot capacity (seats up/down) 343/1,558 litres 586/1,152 litres Kerbweight/payload/towing weight 1,375/415/725kg 1,474/621/1,500kg Turning circle/drag coefficient 10.8 metres/0.24Cd 11.7 metres/N/A Basic warranty (miles)/recovery 5yrs (100,000)/1yr 3yrs (60,000)/1yr Service intervals/UK dealers 10,000 miles (1yr)/181 Variable/223 Driver Power manufacturer/dealer pos. 8th/2nd 22nd/30th NCAP: Adult/child/ped./assist/stars N/A 85/87/66/76/5 0-60/30-70mph 10.4/10.2 secs 10.1/9.1 secs 30-50mph in 3rd/4th 4.0 secs (kickdown) 4.5/7.4 secs 50-70mph in 5th/6th 6.1 secs (kickdown) 9.2/13.5 secs Top speed/rpm at 70mph 112mph/N/A 130mph/1,800rpm Braking 70-0/60-0/30-0mph 52.8/37.4/12.0m 50.4/36.2/10.6m Auto Express econ (mpg/mpl)/range 57.8/12.7/547 miles 49.3/10.8/640 miles Govt urban/extra-urban/combined 97.4/91.1/94.2mpg 65.7/85.6/76.3mpg Govt urban/extra-urban/combined 21.4/20.0/20.7mpl 14.5/18.8/16.8mpl Actual/claimed CO2/tax bracket 131/70g/km/11% 154/95g/km/19% Airbags/Isofix/park sensors/camera Seven/yes/£495/yes Nine/yes/£450/£315 Auto gearbox/stability/cruise control Yes/yes/adaptive No/yes/£255 Climate control/leather/heated seats Yes/no/no No/no/£285* Metallic paint/LED lights/keyless go £495/yes/yes £545/£965/no Sat-nav/USB/DAB radio/Bluetooth £750/yes/yes/yes £675/yes/yes/yes