Volkswagen launches 2009 Passat R Line with enhanced equipment
The 2009 Volkswagen Passat R Line arrives in UK showrooms with sportier styling, extra standard kit and a choice of petrol and diesel engines, starting at £17,040.
Volkswagen has introduced the Passat R Line to the UK market, expanding its mid-size saloon and estate line-up with a trim focused on sporty styling and additional standard equipment. The R Line sits above the entry-level S model and is available to order from May 2009, with prices starting at £17,040 for the saloon and £18,210 for the estate.
The R Line replaces the previous Sport trim in a revised Passat range structure, which now consists of S, R Line and Highline variants. The BlueMotion continues as the efficiency offering, while the R36 remains the flagship performance model. Volkswagen positions the R Line as a value proposition, claiming £2,470 worth of extra kit for a £600 premium over the S.
Sportier exterior and added features
The R Line distinguishes itself visually with a bodykit designed by Volkswagen Individual, including front, side and rear skirts, chrome louvres, and a chrome grille surround. Standard 17-inch ‘Monte Carlo’ alloy wheels and a choice of eight paint colours further set it apart from lower trims. Both saloon and estate versions receive the same treatment.
Inside, the R Line gains cruise control, a leather multifunction steering wheel, a front centre armrest, and height/lumbar adjustment for both front seats. An electronic tyre pressure monitoring system is also standard. These features build on the existing Passat S specification, which already includes climate control, remote central locking, ABS with ESP, and a CD/MP3 audio system with AUX-in.
Engine options and pricing
| Model | Engine | Transmission | CO2 (g/km) | Combined mpg | RRP (OTR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saloon | 1.4 TSI 122 PS | 6-spd manual | 157 | 42.8 | £17,040 |
| Saloon | 1.8 TSI 160 PS | 6-spd manual | 178 | 37.2 | £18,550 |
| Saloon | 2.0 TDI CR 110 PS | 6-spd manual | 143 | 51.4 | £18,150 |
| Saloon | 2.0 TDI CR 140 PS | 6-spd manual | 146 | 50.4 | £19,295 |
| Saloon | 2.0 TDI CR 140 PS | 6-spd DSG | 158 | 47.1 | £20,565 |
| Estate | 1.4 TSI 122 PS | 6-spd manual | 159 | 42.2 | £18,210 |
| Estate | 1.8 TSI 160 PS | 6-spd manual | 186 | 36.2 | £19,270 |
| Estate | 2.0 TDI CR 110 PS | 6-spd manual | 146 | 50.4 | £19,320 |
| Estate | 2.0 TDI CR 140 PS | 6-spd manual | 148 | 49.6 | £20,465 |
| Estate | 2.0 TDI CR 140 PS | 6-spd DSG | 159 | 46.3 | £21,735 |
All R Line models share their engine range with the S trim: two petrols (1.4 TSI 122 PS and 1.8 TSI 160 PS) and two 2.0-litre common-rail diesels (110 PS and 140 PS). The 140 PS diesel is available with a six-speed DSG automatic, while all other engines are paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. Estate models carry a modest price and emissions increase over the saloon.
Position in the Passat line-up
The arrival of the R Line streamlines the Passat range, giving buyers a clearer choice between value, sportiness and high specification. For those seeking more performance, the R36 continues as the range-topper, while the BlueMotion remains the most economical option. The R Line’s mix of styling and equipment is aimed at buyers who want a sportier appearance without the running costs of a full performance model.
Volkswagen retailers began taking orders for the Passat R Line saloon and estate in May 2009. Early sales figures and reception will indicate whether the new trim’s equipment and pricing package resonates with UK buyers against rivals in the segment.
