Volkswagen is aiming to attract user-choosers to its Passat range with a new sporty R-Line specification model.
Based on the S model, the R-Line version beefs up the standard Passat’s looks with a sports bodykit, 18-inch alloy wheels and lowered sports suspension.
Further exterior additions include chrome trim on the bumpers and window surrounds as well as tinted rear windows, bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights.
Inside, standard equipment includes Bluetooth telephony, USB and iPod interface, DAB digital radio and a leather multi-function steering wheel.
The R-Line Passat comes with three engine options: a new supercharged and turbocharged 1.4-litre 160bhp petrol engine or two turbodiesels in 1.6 105bhp and 2.0-litre 140bhp guises.
All come with a standard six-speed manual gearbox, while the 1.4 petrol and 2.0 diesel can be specified with a DSG automatic gearbox.
The 1.6 TDI is likely to be the most popular choice among company car drivers, blending decent performance with claimed combined fuel economy of 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions of 114g/km.
This equates to a 17% benefit-in-kind tax banding, with a company car tax bill of £62 a month for a base rate taxpayer.
Prices start at £22,060 (P11d) for the saloon and £23,435 for the estate. Orders are being taken now with first deliveries taking place in June.
Volkswagen is also offering Passat Highline and Sport drivers the chance to replicate the R-Line look by buying a bodykit for £900 (including fitting).
To read the full Volkswagen Passat saloon review click here and for the full Volkswagen Passat estate review click here.
Sportier styling marks out the new Volkswagen R-Line Passat
Choice of either saloon or estate, plus a choice of petrol and diesel
