Volkswagen is enhancing it Passat sedan and Estate ranges in Britain with the addition of its sporty R-Line trim that is already offered on other models like the Tiguan SUV. Based on the entry-level S model and available with the same engine choices, the R-Line carries a premium of £600 over the S but comes with an additional £2,470 worth of equipment that includes 17-inch 'Monte Carlo' alloy wheels and an 'R' styling pack with front, side and rear skirts as well as chrome louvres and grille surround.
Key additions to the interior include cruise control, height adjustment and lumbar support on both front seats, a front centre armrest and leather multifunction steering wheel, as well as an electronic tire pressure monitoring system.
As with the S model, the R Line is offered with 1.4-litre TSI 122HP and 1.8-litre TSI 160HP petrol units and two 2.0-litre common rail TDI diesel engines producing 110 or 140HP. The higher powered diesel is available with the option of a six-speed DSG automatic gearbox while all other engines come with a standard six-speed manual gearbox.
With the presentation of the R-Line, VW decided to drop the Sport and SEL trims from the Passat's range.
