VW Passat R-Line introduced

The VW Passat R-Line introduced in the new Passat range

But the Passat R-Line (which will be available in both saloon and estate versions) is not really an addition to the Passat range, rather a re-working of the current model options. The Passat Sport and Passat SEL are dropped, and the new range now comprises S, R-Line and Highline.

But, just as with the Tiguan R-Line, this is not a power upgrade but merely a cosmetic one. It would seem that VW are intent on making their cars more ‘Butch’ looking without necessarily offering the power and performance we would normally expect from R-Line models. A nod to the ‘Eco’Times’, I suppose.

The bodykit for the new Passat R-Line is a product of VW’s Individual Division, responsible for other R-Line models such as the soon to be released VW Scirroco R20T. On the Passat the R-Line trim adds skirts all round, some chrome bits on the grill and louvres and a set of 17″  Monte Carlo alloys.

Inside the Passat R-Line gets better seats, tyre pressure monitoring and cruise control. Add to this the standard kit on the Passat S (on which the R-Line is based) which includes climate control, ESP, a stack of airbags and a half decent Radio/CD with MP3 functions, and you have a well-equipped, decent-looking Passat.

The engines, unfortunately, are the same and include a 1.4 and 1.8 litre petrol and a couple of 2.0 litre diesels offering either 110PS or 140PS. But of course, even though you don’t get power upgrades with the R-Line pack, you do still have the option of the Passat R36. I guess this is a way for Passat buyers to look like they’ve bought the top of the range R36 without spending the money.

Passat R-Line models start at £17,040, which is only £600 more than the Passat S costs, but you get £2.5k of extra kit. Not a bad option.

CO2 emissions,

Fuel economy,

Price, £

157

42.8

17,040

178

37.2

18,550

143

51.4

18,150

146

50.4

19,295

158

47.1

20,565

CO2 emissions,

Fuel economy,

Price, £

159

42.2

18,210

186

36.2

19,270

146

50.4

19,320

148

49.6

20,465

159

46.3

21,735

By Cars UK