2014-2017 Volkswagen Passat 1.8L

Overview

The 2014-2017 Volkswagen Passat represents a specific era for the brand in the North American market. Unlike the European version of the Passat, which utilized a more complex and expensive platform, this model was engineered specifically for the United States. Volkswagen designed this version to compete directly with high-volume midsize sedans like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, prioritizing interior space, rear-seat legroom, and a lower price point to attract cost-conscious American buyers.

Manufactured at the Volkswagen Chattanooga Assembly Plant in Tennessee, this generation of the Passat moved away from the premium-leaning European architecture to a more localized approach. The 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine became a staple of the lineup, replacing the older 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine to improve fuel efficiency and torque delivery. This transition allowed the vehicle to maintain competitive highway fuel economy while providing a more modern driving experience for daily commuters.

Throughout its production cycle, the model received minor updates to its infotainment systems and interior materials to keep it relevant against newer competitors. While it was praised for its substantial cabin and trunk space, it eventually faced challenges as the market shifted toward crossover SUVs. Today, it remains a common sight on American roads, recognized for its conservative styling and focus on utility over performance.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Passat
Model Year	2014-2017
Generation	NMS (New Midsize Sedan)
Trim	S, SE, SEL, R-Line
Body Style	4-Door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	D-Segment
Vehicle Class	Midsize Cars
Market	USA
Platform	PQ46
Assembly Plant	Chattanooga, Tennessee
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	2011
Production End	2022
VIN Identifier	1VW
Base MSRP	$22,445
Destination Charge	$820
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion
Engine Family	EA888 Gen 3
Engine Name	1.8 TSI
Engine Code	CPKA / CPRA
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	1.8 Liters
Bore x Stroke	82.5 mm x 84.1 mm
Compression Ratio	9.6:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	5.7 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower	170 hp @ 4,800 rpm
Torque	184 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm
Redline	6,000 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio	3.87:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	24
EPA Highway MPG	35
EPA Combined MPG	28
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	8.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.5
Estimated Driving Range	647 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,550
CO₂ Emissions	315 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	6
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.9 seconds
0-60 mph	7.8 seconds
0-100 mph	21.5 seconds
Quarter Mile	16.0 seconds
Top Speed	127 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.82g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.05 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	191.9
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	72.2
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	82.0
Height (in)	58.5
Wheelbase (in)	110.4
Front Track (in)	62.1
Rear Track (in)	62.0
Ground Clearance (in)	5.4
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,225
GVWR (lbs)	4,453
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,150
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	102
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	15.9
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	36.4 ft
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick+
Small Overlap Front	Good
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Acceptable
Front Crash Prevention	Superior
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.3-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with Multi-Function Display
Apple CarPlay	Yes (2016+)
Android Auto	Yes (2016+)
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	Fender Premium Audio
Speaker Count	8
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	12 years / 120,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	1 year / 10,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Silao, Mexico
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	4.148, 2.370, 1.556, 1.155, 0.859, 0.685
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	8.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2014-2017 Passat 1.8L is widely regarded as a practical, comfortable, and understated choice in the used midsize sedan market. Its primary appeal lies in its expansive interior and refined highway ride, which often feels more substantial than its Japanese competitors. However, prospective buyers should be aware of common maintenance items, specifically regarding the cooling system, turbocharger wastegate actuators, and the necessity of strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup in the direct-injection engine. While the transmission is generally reliable, some owners have reported harsh shifting as the vehicle ages, often remedied by a software update or fluid flush. In the current market, these vehicles offer significant value for those seeking a German-engineered feel at a budget-friendly price point, provided the service history is well-documented.