Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion concept unveiled with cylinder deactivation technology.

Should return 42 mpg highway

Volkswagen has unveiled the Passat BlueMotion concept, ahead of its debut at the North American International Auto Show.

Designed to show how fuel efficient non-hybrids can be, the concept has a Reef Blue Metallic exterior with a revised grille and a rear spoiler. The car also has a two-tone interior with leather seats, gloss black accents and carbon fiber trim.

Motivation is provided by a 1.4-liter TSI engine that produces 150 bhp (112 kW) and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque. While the engine isn't powerful, it has been equipped with direct injection, a start/stop system and an Active Cylinder Management system that deactivates two cylinders at low speeds. The model also has a coasting function that enables the DSG transmission to decouple from the engine - as soon as the driver releases the accelerator pedal - to minimize mechanical drag.

Thanks to all these changes, the Passat BlueMotion concept has an estimated highway fuel economy rating of 42 mpg US (50.4 mpg UK / 5.6 L/100km).

Source: Volkswagen USA