Novice air filter question

I finally found the air filter on my 2000 Passat (man things are hidden on this car!)

I popped two standard clips - as you would on any vehicle - but it seems it is still connected by various hoses and such.

Is there an easy way to replace the air filter without dissasembing the entire system?

...also where might the spark plugs be on the 1.8 turbo engine - they seem to be hiding from me as well...

Any help you fine folks can provide would be greatly appreciated!

For the spark plugs, take off the plastic cover off the top of the motor. You will see 4 idividual coil packs held by two allen bolts each along the top of the head. Take the coil pack off and the plugs are underneath. You will need a 6 inch extension to get to em. For the air filter, there are two more clips i believe, down lower . If you undo all 4 clips and just take of the air intake hose you shlould be able to open it up enought to slip the filter out . I use a K&N and have had good luck with that. Hope that helps.