Wearing the R-Line Bodykit Makes The Volkswagen Passat Look Less Mundane

Anyone who has commented that the Passat looks boring might need to rethink the opinion. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia, in a virtual event, has just pushed forth the Passat R-Line into showrooms around Malaysia. The R-Line kit, inspired by Volkswagen’s powerful R models, attempts to add athleticism and dynamism to the mid-sized sedan’s appearance.

The R-Line brings new front and rear bumpers into the mix, as well as chrome trimming that runs along the sides of the sedan. The 18-inch alloy wheels of the Elegance variant makes way for the 19-inch Verona alloy wheels, which can also be found on the United variant.

Inside, new finishes and materials further drive a gap between the R-Line and the other variants — Dark Diamond Flag decorative trim and black headliner headlines the differences. The R-Line badge is also found on the seats, leather multi-function steering wheel, aluminium sports pedals and aluminium front and rear scuff plates.

ErgoComfort electric seats, wrapped in Nappa carbon-style black leather, are fitted in the Passat R-Line. If the colours prove to be too dark at night, there are 30 ambient lighting colours to choose from.

Interestingly, the Passat R-Line is fitted with a complimentary Helix 300W Soundbar, which is worth RM2,400. This five-channel amplifier with an integrated sound processor and a subwoofer is manufactured by a German Hi-Fi audio specialist and is a Volkswagen Approved Accessory.

The Passat R-Line runs with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, mated to a seven-speed wet-type dual-clutch gearbox, which produces 187hp and 320Nm. Volkswagen’s Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) is fitted into the Passat R-Line. The DCC lets the driver tweak the car to how it is driven. Or, the driver can choose between Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Individual to suit any driving styles.

Another aspect that the Passat R-Line is well equipped is in the safety department. Rear Cross Traffic Alert with a 180-degree detection range up to 50 metres, Side Assist blind-spot monitors, Electronic Differential Lock and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System comes as standard in the sedan.

The Passat R-Line is priced at RM203,411,18 but only until the end of the year due to the tax break. Next year, the sedan will be priced at RM208,888 and is packaged with three-year free maintenance, five-year unlimited mileage warranty and five-year roadside assistance.

Sure, it is more expensive than the current Passat variants. Still, there are some additions in the Passat R-Line that makes it worth considering.