VW unveiling new Passats at auto show

photo A worker cleans a Volkswagen logo.

DETROIT - Volkswagen today unfurled a new version of the Chattanooga-made Passat with a focus on fuel efficiency, and plans are to unveil another with an eye on sportiness later this week at the North American International Auto Show.

The Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion Concept can achieve an estimated highway fuel-economy rating of 42 mpg. That's all without utilizing a diesel or gas-electric hybrid powertrain, according to the automaker.

VW uses a smaller engine than its typical 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder power plant. And, the German automaker says it's the first in the world to offer cylinder-deactivation technology in a 4-cylinder engine. All of that technology helps the vehicle reach the high fuel efficiency, according to VW.

Michael Horn, Volkswagen of America's new chief executive, introduced the concept, adding that the Passat offers a new color -- Reef Blue Metallic.

Later in the show, VW plans to reveal the new 2014 Passat Sport model, which fits into the automaker's lineup between the SE and SEL versions.

This version of the Passat comes with fog lights, a rear spoiler, and 19-inch aluminum wheels, and there are three shades of paint are available: Candy White, Tungsten Silver, and a color that is exclusive to the Passat Sport called Urano Gray.

VW says the 2014 Passat Sport will cost $27,295 with the standard manual gearbox. An automatic transmission adds $1,200 to the price. The car is to arrive in dealer showrooms in early 2014.

See full story in Tuesday's Times Free Press.

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