Executive car rental fans planning long journeys will find the Volkswagen Passat 1.9 TDI BlueMotion Estate an ideal vehicle for this task.

A review of the car by motoring website autocar.co.uk states that the Passat is not only eco-friendly but also wallet-friendly and comfortable, thanks to all-round tweaks that have been carried out.

From lengthened gears and a lowered cooling suspension to improved under body airflow, the vehicle carves a niche for itself as a "sensible" and "fine" tool, says the website.

"Its performance won't set the asphalt alight, but 104bhp and 184lb ft of torque is comfortable enough to keep the VW Passat Bluemotion estate moving along at a brisk pace," reads the review.

Very long journeys can be taken in the car, the website adds, which was highlighted by its ability to average 50mpg "without trying particularly hard".

The vehicle's manufacturer recently scored a hat-trick at the What Car? Awards by securing wins for the new Golf SE 1.4-litre five door model, the Eos coupe convertible and the new Golf GTI.

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