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Here's Wolfsburg's third plug-in hybrid model after the limited-run XL1 and the Golf GTE - the Volkswagen Passat GTE, which is going to next month's Paris motor show. Sedan and estate versions will be available when it goes on sale in Europe next year.

It packs the same modular petrol-hybrid system used by the Golf GTE, only there's more grunt on tap here. In the Passat GTE, a 154 hp 1.4 litre TSI engine joins forces with a 113 hp/330 Nm electric motor for a combined output of 215 hp and 400 Nm of torque. This beats the Golf GTE's total system output by 14 hp and 50 Nm.

Like in the Golf GTE, the electric motor is housed within the six-speed DSG, but here it's fed by a 9.9 kWh lithium-ion battery (Golf GTE 8.8 kWh). That gives the Passat GTE an all-electric range of 50 km (same as the Golf GTE) and a total petrol+electric range of nearly 1,000 km (Golf GTE 933 km).

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A full charge takes around four-and-a-quarter hours if you're using a standard 240-volt system, or two-and-a-half hours from an optional wallbox. Four driving modes are available: E-mode, Hybrid, Battery Charge and GTE.

In E-mode, the Passat GTE can travel up to 130 km/h solely on electric power. Hybrid mode automatically switches between petrol and electric motors, while Battery Charge mode prioritises energy recuperation.

In GTE mode, the petrol and electric motors come together for maximum performance - here the vehicle is capable of reaching 100 km/h from rest in under eight seconds before hitting a 220 km/h top speed.

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NEDC combined fuel consumption is quoted at an astounding two litres per 100 km, and CO2 emissions aren't any less impressive at under 45 grams per km.

Externally, the Passat GTE sports blue elements within the front grille, a new front bumper with C-shaped LED DRLs and GTE badges on the front wings. More blue inside - on the dashboard and door trims, the gear knob and gaiter, as well as the stitching on the flat-bottomed steering wheel.

Hybrid-specific instruments too - the conventional rev counter has made way for a charge/assist gauge, while energy flow, range and other information can be monitored through a colour display between the dials.