Volkswagen are famous with their diesel engines. Since 90's, they proved, that the diesel power units coming from VAG have great potential and extremely low fuel consumption. As a matter of fact, 1.9TDI became a byword for economy. Of course, the technologies advanced and the diesel engines become even more efficient. Now a Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI BlueMotion set a new world record by doing 2464 km (1 531 miles) on a single tank of fuel.

The "test pilot" was Sunday Times journalist Gavin Conway, who put his name in the Guinness Book of World Records.

The amazing Passat was powered by 1.6 liter TDI with 105PS and 250Nm with BlueMotion technology that includes a Stop/Start system for improved fuel-economy. The car is a standard production model with no modifications. It achieved the staggering 90 miles per gallon, which is 3.1 liter per 100 km. For example, the factory standard combined cycle rating is 4.4 liter per 100 km (64.2mpg).

The BlueMotion technology on Volkswagen Passat consists of a lower ride height, low roll-resistance tires, aerodynamic bodywork, a Stop/Start system and programmed battery charging. BlueMotion technology is also available on the Polo and Golf models.