Volkswagen has launched the Passat BlueMotion 2.

The Passat BlueMotion 2 features economy-enhancing stop/start technology and a 2.0-litre 110PS turbo diesel engine.

BlueMotion is the name VW uses for its super-economical cars. These feature aerodynamically enhanced bodywork and optimised engine mapping and gearbox ratios. These tweaks improve fuel consumption over the standard cars.

The VW Passat BlueMotion 2 replaces the previous 1.9-litre turbo diesel BlueMotion Passat.

Economy for the Passat BlueMotion 2 saloon rises from 55.4mpg to 57.6mpg. CO2 emissions drop from 136g/km (business car tax band 18%) to 128g/km – still in the 18% business car tax band.

The VW Passat BlueMotion 2 estate has similar gains. Economy rises from 55.3mpg to 57.6mpg; CO2 emissions drop from 137g/km to 129g/km. But the car remains in the 18% business car tax band.

Standard equipment includes alloy wheels; six airbags; anti-lock brakes; anti-skid ESP; air conditioning; and cruise control.

Prices for the Passat saloon BlueMotion 2: £17,700.

Prices for the Passat estate BlueMotion 2: £18,835.

How does the stop/start work on Passat BlueMotion 2?

• It functions in the same way as BMW’s EfficientDynamics system on BMW and MINI models.
• The automatic stop/start system operates through the clutch.
• At traffic lights the driver depresses the clutch and selects neutral. When the clutch is released the engine shuts down.
• To move away, the driver depresses the clutch to select first gear and the engine re-starts automatically.
• The system can be deactivated through a switch located on the centre console.

Volkswagen launches Passat BlueMotion 2