The Volkswagen Passat B8, produced from 2014 to 2018, represented a significant step forward for Volkswagen’s mid-size sedan. The 1.4 TSI (150 hp) 4MOTION ACT variant occupied a key position within the B8 lineup, offering a blend of fuel efficiency, all-wheel drive capability, and a relatively accessible price point. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where fuel economy and practicality are highly valued, but also saw limited sales in other regions. It sat in the mid-range of the Passat B8 offerings, positioned above the base 1.6 TDI models and below the more powerful 2.0 TSI variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat |
| Generation | Passat (B8) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) 4MOTION ACT |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 – 6.6 l/100 km (35.1 – 35.6 US mpg, 42.2 – 42.8 UK mpg, 14.9 – 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.0 – 4.9 l/100 km (47 – 48 US mpg, 56.5 – 57.6 UK mpg, 20 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 – 5.5 l/100 km (42 – 42.8 US mpg, 50.4 – 51.4 UK mpg, 17.9 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 – 128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 100.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 168 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CZDA, CZEA, CPHB |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1488 kg (3280.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 602 kg (1327.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 586 l (20.69 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1152 l (40.68 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Length | 4767 mm (187.68 in.) |
| Width | 1832 mm (72.13 in.) |
| Height | 1456 mm (57.32 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm (109.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 13.4° |
| Departure angle | 12.3° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Passat B8 1.4 TSI 4MOTION ACT, launched in 2014, was a key component of the eighth-generation Passat range. Built on the modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform – also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform – the B8 represented a move upmarket for the Passat, with improved interior quality, more advanced technology, and a more sophisticated driving experience. The 1.4 TSI 4MOTION ACT variant specifically targeted buyers seeking a balance between fuel efficiency, all-weather capability, and a reasonable level of performance. It was a popular choice in Northern European countries where inclement weather is common.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Passat 1.4 TSI 4MOTION ACT lies the EA211 engine family. The 1.4-liter, four-cylinder engine (engine codes CZDA, CZEA, CPHB) utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 150 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. A key feature of this engine is its cylinder deactivation (ACT) system, which shuts down two cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel economy. The engine’s fuel injection system is a sophisticated direct injection setup, delivering precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The valvetrain employs dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a good balance between fuel efficiency and driver engagement. The 4MOTION system is a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system that normally operates in front-wheel drive, engaging the rear wheels when traction is lost.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 TSI 4MOTION ACT Passat offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the 150 hp engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8.3 seconds. The manual transmission, while offering more driver involvement than the optional DSG automatic, had relatively long throws. The 4MOTION system provided excellent traction in slippery conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TSI variants, the 1.4 TSI felt less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, it offered significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 TSI 4MOTION ACT typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a navigation system, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on base models, with leather options available. The dashboard layout was clean and modern, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The Passat B8 featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 4MOTION models typically had slightly stiffer springs and dampers to compensate for the added weight of the all-wheel-drive system. Braking systems consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Passat 1.4 TSI 4MOTION ACT was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.6 TDI models, the 1.4 TSI offered more power and a more refined driving experience, but at a higher price point. The 2.0 TSI variants provided significantly more performance but were considerably more expensive and less fuel-efficient. In terms of reliability, the 1.4 TSI engine proved to be generally reliable, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and direct injection system.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Passat B8 1.4 TSI 4MOTION ACT remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-wheel-drive capability makes it a compelling option for buyers seeking a comfortable and reliable mid-size sedan. The EA211 engine, while not without its potential issues, has proven to be relatively durable when properly maintained. Regular oil changes and timely servicing are crucial to ensure the long-term reliability of this powertrain. Today, these Passats represent a good value proposition, offering a lot of car for the money.
