Volkswagen detailed the updates it has in store for select 2014-MY vehicles, with one of the key changes being a new four-cylinder 1.8L engine in a number of models, including the Jetta, Passat, and Beetle. The new 1.8L engine replaces the naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder engine in the previous model-year Jetta, Passat, and Beetle.
Starting with the new engine, the 1.8L EA888 turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TSI can produce 170 hp and 184 lb.-ft. of torque and VW said it will provide better fuel economy when compared with the previous 2.5L engine. The automaker said torque performance is 7 lb.-ft. better than the outgoing 2.5L. VW hasn’t provided any fuel economy estimates or official figures yet. The engine is built in VW’s plant in Silao, Mexico, according to the automaker.
The new TSI will be included in the Jetta line and Passat SEL initially and will appear in the other vehicles in the Passat lineup and the Beetle later in the year, VW stated.
Starting with the Jetta, VW replaced the 2.5L engine with the new 1.8L engine on the SE model, as mentioned previously. The Jetta 1.8T, 2.0, and TDI models receive rear multilink suspensions. The SEL model now only offers an automatic transmission. This model also offers VW Car-Net. A rearview camera is available on the SEL, TDI Premium, and TDI Premium and Navigation versions, as is an RNS 315 navigation system, and a Fender Premium Audio System. VW moved the Media Device Interface (MDI) cable from the glove compartment to the center console on SE and higher trim levels. Lastly, the Jetta Hybrid SE, SEL, and SEL Premium trim levels will receive the new high-resolution MFI display in the instrument cluster as well.
For the Passat, VW is adding the new 1.8L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, replacing the 2.5L engine. Next, VW is introducing a rear-view camera on SE and higher trim levels. Keyless access with push-button start and new “Bristol” 18-inch wheels will be available on select SE trim levels. VW’s Car-Net connectivity system will be available on Wolfsburg and higher trim levels for MY-2014, and two-tone seats will be available on all Passat SE trim levels, according to the automaker.
Next, the Beetle received a number of changes, with a predicted 17 percent improvement in fuel economy due to the new 1.8L engine. For 2014, VW offers its VW Car-Net connectivity feature and removed the TDI with Sunroof model from the Beetle lineup. Next, a rear-view camera will be available on the Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation trim levels on the Beetle, Beetle TDI Clean Diesel, and Beetle R-Line models. VW added that the Beetle Turbo lineup has been renamed the R-Line.
