Car buyers in the UK interested in Volkswagen’s Passat sedan and Estate models can now add a new trim level named “R-Line” and a new and more-efficient 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine to their available choices.

The new 1.4-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder petrol unit delivers 160PS or 158bhp and it replaces the 1.8-liter TSI 160 PS / 158bhp unit offering lower CO2 emissions at 144g/km and better fuel economy at 45.6mpg UK combined for the six-speed manual gearbox versions (there’s also a 7-speed DSG).

This new powerplant is available in the Passat R-Line and Highline models, as well as the CC four-door coupe.

Moving on to the newly added R-Line trim, this package is based on the equipment offerings of the Passat S adding a subtle bodykit (unique bumpers, side skirts and boot or tailgate spoiler) together with fog lights with cornering function, a 15mm lowered sports suspension, 18-inch ‘Kansas’ alloy wheels, wrapped in low-profile 235/40 tyres, plus bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights.

Besides the new 1.4 TSI, the R-Line is also available with a 1.6-liter 104bhp (105PS) TDI diesel engine with six-speed manual gearbox and a 2.0-liter 138bhp (140PS) TDI diesel engine with six-speed manual or DSG transmissions.

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