BMW 330e or Passat GTE

[HKP]

Currently in the house we have a Golf GTE which is a very nice thing, but not really quick unless it's in GTE mode and burning lots of gas and electrons. I like it though and the tax implications are agreeable and there is a charger at work for my short commute.

Thinking of adding another PHEV to the stable and it seems that (via carwow) a reasonably modest specced 330e Sport and a Passat GTE are coming in at virtually the same price (the GTE a few hundred quid less).

I've driven both, like both (the BMW is the quicker and sportier car, but for sure less economical), but can't decide between them. I think that the GTE may be an undesirable thing in 4 years though?

The GTE has more kit (leather as standard) and is the more comfortable car behind the wheel, the BMW the better steer.

Just can't blooming decide!

[deason]

I think the Passat GTE is the only decent estate on the market.

I need estate but it's a passat...would I buy an ICE Passat ? probably not!

Long term value a good point.

How do you find the MPG on the golf?

[HKP]

EV range on the Golf is around 26 miles. MPG when flat 48ish.

I've now spotted the Audi E-Tron too - a similar price to the Passat GTE, but much less kit as standard. Nicer looking motor than the GTE and surely better residuals?

[HKP]

Update:

Looks like I'll order the Passat GTE. It's the most modern, and best specified for the price.

Plus, it'll feel at home next to Golf GTE competing for the charger!

[Jonobigblind]

Think the boot will prove more liveable on the Passat than the BMW, especially if you’ve already compromised with the one on the Golf.

[Ahbefive]

Passat is the epitomy of mundane boredom.

[s111dpc]

What about the Merc C350e?

[HKP]

Ahbefive said:

Passat is the epitomy of mundane boredom.

It's kinda what I like about it living in the Badlands of Essex. It won't get nicked, it won't get keyed parked in a backstreet and no one wants to race you. Coming from previous Golf R ownership, I think I may seek solace in the the fact it is mundane boredom.

A bit concerned about the residuals, but I'll PCP it like the rest of the great unwashed...

Merc is coming out about £50 - £70 more per month.

[brycheiniog1]

I ended up going with the Passat GTE estate. The only real alternative for me was the C350e but the boot on that was completely useless in comparison (~350L vs 650L with the seats up). The boot on the Passat will happily swallow our two big dogs and a pushchair down the side.

[HKP]

The missus has now discovered the BMW 225xe whilst browsing Carwow..

I didn't realise they were as quick as they were! Sub 7sec 0-62..

Still fairly anonymous unless in Estoril Blue in M Sport spec

[Jonobigblind]

HKP said:

The missus has now discovered the BMW 225xe whilst browsing Carwow..

I didn't realise they were as quick as they were! Sub 7sec 0-62..

Still fairly anonymous unless in Estoril Blue in M Sport spec

Yeah, pretty much the same motor as the new Mini PHEV. More challenging in the looks department and not fallen far from the tree with the BMW options list and pricing but another marque to consider.

[deason]

Be interested to know range on the duracells with the Passat!

[HKP]

Just to say the Passat has been ordered this afternoon.

I'll let you know how I get on.

[Legacywr]

Did you drive the 330e? It's said to be a fantastic car.

[HKP]

Yes I did. It is more the drivers cars and the engine and electric drive are smoother. It did feel a little last gen compared to the Passat and the space on the Passat won out in the end (and the price).

Whilst I'm a PH'er at heart, this satisfies the need for economical, safe and spacious transport very well.

[brycheiniog1]

deason said:

Be interested to know range on the duracells with the Passat!

I had one for an extended test drive. It managed my morning commute of ~23 miles (Mix of country lanes and 60mph A roads) entirely on electric with about 4 miles left in the tank when I got to the office. It wasn't a hot day so the aircon wasn't on but I didn't drive any differently to I normally do.

It is a shame we don't have charge points at work yet. I will need to figure out if it is more efficient to drive one way on electric and return in hybrid mode or to do both in hybrid mode.

Jonathan