New VW Passat features small engine, big sound (pictures)

Volkswagen updates its Passat midsize sedan for the 2014 model year, giving it a new engine.

The Passat measures just under 16 feet long and carries five passengers.

The Passat's large trunk holds 15.9 cubic feet of cargo.

The star of the Passat is its new 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, using a turbocharger and direct injection at each cylinder to achieve 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.

Volkswagen has reengineered this engine with lower internal friction to help it get better fuel economy.

In SEL Premium trim, the Passat gets power adjustable front seats with leather inserts.

The Passat features typical cabin space for the midsize sedan segment.

An electric power-steering system uses less energy, and makes the wheel easy to turn under all conditions.

In SEL Premium trim, the Passat comes with all features, including cabin tech, standard.

VW sticks with analog gauges in the Passat.

The center display shows turn-by-turn directions.

A six-speed automatic transmission is the only gearbox available at this trim level.

The navigation unit is an upgrade over less trim Passats, using a bigger touchscreen and showing live traffic.

This 3D perspective map looks good, but does not show traffic conditions.

Volkswagen relegates the display of traffic conditions to a separate map.

Data from Sirius Travel Link includes fuel prices, movie times, and weather.

A Bluetooth phone system comes standard.

HD radio is also part of the package.

Local audio sources include Bluetooth streaming, SD card, USB drive, iOS device, and the car's own hard drive.

The music library display lets you select music by album, artist, or song.

The Fender audio system produces excellent sound.

The only driver-assistance feature is this rearview camera.