VW Passat R-Line
A new 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine and R-Line trim level have been added to Volkswagen Passat range
Volkswagen has added the R-Line trim level to the Passat line-up. It’s based on the entry-level Passat S, but adds a sporty looking bodykit. This includes a more prominent front bumper, which includes fog lights, a larger rear bumper and extended side skirts.
The suspension has also been lowered by 15mm when compared to the Passat S, and the car comes with a set of 18-inch ‘Kansas’ alloys. There’s also a small bootlid spoiler on the saloon, or tailgate spoiler on the estate, extra chrome trim and dark-tinted rear windows.
Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, and LED tail-lights complete the look.
The R-Line kit is in addition to the spec of the Passat S, which includes Bluetooth, USB and iPod connectivity, a DAB radio and a leather-trimmed steering wheel that features flappy paddles if you opt for a DSG gearbox.
The R-Line is available with a 104bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine and six-speed manual gearbox; a 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine with six-speed manual or DSG gearbox; or a 158bhp 1.4-litre with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG gearbox.
The latter engine replaces the 1.8-litre petrol as it develops the same power, but is considerably more fuel efficient. All R-Line models feature stop-start.
Prices for the Passat R-Line start at £22,470 for the saloon and £23,880 for the estate, the order books are open now and the first cars should arrive in June. Buyers can also opt for the R-Line bodykit – the bumpers, side skirts and spoiler – on the Passat Highline and Sport models for an extra £900.
