Volkswagen is planning to launch an eco version of the Passat diesel in the UK later this year, promising lower company car tax bills and improved fuel economy.

The BlueMotion models, available in saloon and estate guises from November, feature a raft of modifications to both the mechanics and bodywork to push average fuel economy from the 105bhp 1.9-litre TDI turbodiesel engine from 49.6mpg to 55.3. Emissions also fall from 148g/km in the saloon to 136, dropping it by one benefit-in-kind tax band.

Volkswagen claims the BlueMotion models, which follow the recently launched Polo version, will increase the Passat’s appeal in the company car sector further. The firm sold more than 38,000 units in the UK last year, of which fleet registrations accounted for nearly 30,000. The model has won the best upper-medium car and company car of the year titles at the past two Fleet News Awards.

Vincent Kinner, head of fleet services at Volkswagen, said: “Passat BlueMotion combines everyday useability with extraordinary economy which will bring immediate benefits to fleet customers.”

Volkswagen aims to sell around 300 models in the UK this year, while in its first full year it expects to sell 1,200 saloons and 500 estates. Next year could also see the arrival of a Golf BlueMotion, offering similar fuel and emission savings.

Passat BlueMotion first drive in Roadtests later this week.