Sunday Times journalist Gavin Conway has set a world record by driving a Volkswagen Passat 1,531 miles (2464 km) on a single tank of fuel.

The Passat was fitted with VW's most efficient diesel engine - the 1.6 liter TDI (105 PS /250 Nm) with BlueMotion technology that includes a stop/start system for improved fuel-economy. No modifications were made to the car. It was a standard production model.

Conway used exactly 77.25 liters of diesel fuel on the drive which meant a fuel-economy figure of exactly 90 miles per gallon (imperial) or 3.1 liter/100 km - way above the standard combined cycle rating of 64.2 mpg (4.4 liter/100 km).

The event was documented by representatives of the Guinness Book of World records who confirmed the record.

BlueMotion technology on the Passat includes 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.

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