The VWPassat BlueMotion is a long distance traveler it seems. The number of kilometers that you can squeeze out of a tank of fuel is becoming a huge draw for new and used car buyers, not that fuel economy of a vehicle is a new thing, it’s just a lot more of a concern these days. To this end we have fuel economy runs, to see just what these vehicles are capable of, assuming the vehicles mpg rating is not a good enough indication.

VW Passat BlueMotion impresses with long range traveling

On one such run that recently took place, a Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion set a new Guinness world record for the longest distance traveled on a single tank of fuel for a standard passenger car. The VW Passat BlueMotion traveled from Kent to the South of France and back, a total of 1562 miles, or roughly 2457km, an incredible feat. The Passat BlueMotion was the standard model 1.6 liter TDI and traveled at an average speed of 72km/h.

Volkswagen attribute the Passat BlueMotion’s impressive fuel economy with the following factors: Aerodynamic modifications to the bodywork, lower ride height, Stop/Start technology, programmed battery charging, longer gearing and low rolling resistance tyres. These features are also available in the VW Golf BlueMotion and Polo BlueMotion.

To ensure that everything was legit, the vehicle was trailed by two AA patrolmen to accredit the record. The fuel tank was completely drained and then filled with 77 liters of standard forecourt diesel. For this economy run, the vehicle ran at a ridiculous 89.83 miles per gallon, which is significantly higher than its official combined figure of 64.2mpg.

Well done to the guys at VW for creating such an economical vehicle and credit must also go out to the driver for having the patience to drive at such a slow speed for the 3 days it took to complete this economy run.