Volkswagen Passat R Line Released

Finding itself at the top of both vehicle preferences in Europe (with the Volkswagen Golf) and top European brands, German manufacturer Volkswagen gives us another treat with the release of the Volkswagen Passat R Line, for both the saloon and estate versions. The line-up, consisting of the S, Highline, Sport and SEL versions will be replaced by the S, R Line and Highline. The company's BlueMotion will be featured on these versions as well.

The R Line trim level is based on the entry level S model, hence the use of the same engine choices. Prices for the R Line start at £17,040 and go as far as £21,735, but the manufacturer says this includes an extra £2,470 worth of equipment.

For that money, you get a revised exterior, with new 17 inch Monte Carlo’ alloy wheels and an R styling pack designed by Volkswagen subsidiary Individual. The pack includes front, side and rear skirts and chrome louvres and grille surround, all mated to a body painted in one of the eight exterior colors available.

On the inside, the R Line now features cruise control, height adjustment and lumbar support on both front seats, a front centre armrest and leather multifunction steering wheel, as well as electronic tire pressure monitoring system.

All of the above mentioned are options on top of Passat's current specifications. ABS, ESP, front, side and curtain airbags, Climatic air conditioning, remote central locking with alarm and advanced radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility, as well as AUX-in socket for connection to an external multimedia source, they are all still there.

As for the engines, we already told you there is no change. Passat R Line comes in a choice of two petrol (1.4l TSI 122 horsepower or 1.8l TSI 160 horsepower) or two diesel engines (both 2.0l TDI, developing 110 or 140 horsepower).