Four efficient petrol engines are now available to order for the first time from Volkswagen retailers in the Passat saloon and estate, and Tiguan SUV, model ranges.

Volkswagen UK’s product marketing manager Wes Withey said: “Adding petrol engine options to our popular Passat family, in particular, is a great step forward.

“Powerful, refined and frugal – these new petrol units make the Passat more accessible in terms of price, as well as further broadening the cars’ already extensive appeal.”

The Passat gains four petrol engines options, ranging from a 1.4-litre TSI 125 PS to a potent 2.0-litre TSI 220 PS, and also including the 1.4-litre TSI 150 PS with active cylinder technology.

The R-Line trim is being made available with an entry-level engine in Passat.

Volkswagen suggests that the new petrol-powered Passats may be appealing to fleet managers, due to benefit in kind (BIK) ratings.

It states: “The Passat 1.4 TSI ACT 150 PS SE Business six-speed manual, with an on-the-road price of £23,775 RRP, produces a BIK rating of 22% meaning a 40% tax payer would incur a tax charge of £6,880 over a typical three years behind the wheel.”

The equivalent Passat 2.0 TDI 150 PS SE Business six-speed manual driver would be required to pay HMRC £7,746 over the same 36-month spell thanks to the car’s £25,675 RRP and 23% BIK rate.

The new petrol-powered Passat models will be introduced at an RRP roughly £1,900 below their diesel equivalents.

Meanwhile, seven new petrol derivatives have also been added to the Tiguan range. The 1.4-litre 125 PS TSI 2WD has been introduced on the SE and SE Nav trim lines, offering a lower entry price from just £25,000 RRP OTR.

The accomplished 1.4-litre 150 PS 2WD DSG is now available on the SEL and R-Line which, priced from £29,900 RRP OTR for the SEL trim.