The stylish new Volkswagen Passat CC can now be had in the United Kingdom with the company’s vaunted seven-speed DSG transmission – but only if you’re after the 118kW 1.8 litre TSI model.

Acceleration with the DSG transmission is moderately improved, with a 100km/h sprint covered in 8.5 seconds, as opposed to 8.6 seconds in the manual model. Fuel economy also receives a marginal improvement, with the DSG returning 7.2l/100km compared to the manual’s 7.5l/100km figure.  CO2 emissions are reduced to 172g/km, while the manual achieves 178g/km.

The Passat CC features full-time 4MOTION all-wheel-drive, and a range of petrol and diesel engine options, including the range-topping 220kW 3.6 litre FSI V6.  It is expected to be available in Australia towards the end of 2009.