A new breed of athlete - The new Passat R-Line
As the world's best-selling mid-sized sedan, the Passat needs no introduction.
First launched in 1973, it is currently in its eighth generation with more than 30 million units sold so far. Within the Volkswagen family, it is now only second to the Golf, which has sold more than 35 million units.
In Malaysia, the new Passat R-Line joins the Volkswagen family as its latest offering, and completes the R-Line trinity, which consists of the Arteon R-Line and Tiguan Allspace R-Line.
The concept of R-Line began at Volkswagen R, Volkswagen's performance department. The R models represent the crème of the crop for Volkswagen and stands for Premium Performance for the brand. However, there is also demand out there for products with similar aesthetic without the offered performance, and this is where the R-Line models come in. The R-Line range was created to offer drivers a way to express one's individuality and make a sporty statement, while still providing great value.
In the case of the Passat, it had always mirrored the course of technological progress at Volkswagen, and till today continues to set the standards in the sedan segment in terms of technology and quality.
Pair the Passat with the R-Line heritage, and a winner is born.
The dynamic sedan is decked with special performance interior and exterior trims that enhances its overall appearance touches. This is evident from the front, rear and side profile, where R-Line touches clearly distinguish it from its sibling, the Passat Elegance.
This includes new R-Line front and rear bumpers, side R-Line badge, chrome trims and 19" Verona alloy wheels. As for the interior, R-Line trim is evident on the Nappa carbon-style black leather seats, steering wheel and aluminium sports pedals.
Adding to its character is a redesigned lighting signature - an all-LED headlight system, front and rear sequential turn signals and a three-wing taillight design.
Other distinct features include the "Passat" lettering stretched across its rear, and bold 19-inch "Verona" alloy wheels.
Driving experience is enhanced with Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) and Driving Mode Selection that allows for the driver to customise and select up to 15 driving style preferences.
As with all Volkswagen models, convenience and comfort go hand in hand, and features such as a personalised Digital Cockpit, wireless App-Connect Apple Car Play provide instant connectivity for the driver. Front seats are 14-way ErgoComfort seats in Nappa carbon-style black leather, while the driver seat also comes with massage and memory function.
The Passat R-Line will appeal to discerning drivers out there, those who demand a certain level of aesthetics and driving satisfaction with every drive.