Clearly Different from the Conventional Passat

The "Passat 2.0TSI R-line," equipped with the 2-liter engine from the Golf GTI,Golf GTIwas released in September 2016. Traditionally, the Passat was known for its spacious body powered by a relatively compact 1.4-liter engine, making it a flagbearer of downsizing. The newly added Passat 2.0TSI R-line boasts a significantly more powerful output of 162 kW (220 ps) compared to the 110 kW (150 ps) of the 1.4-liter model. Furthermore, its sporty character is emphasized with 19-inch wheels and aerodynamic parts.

The Passat 2.0TSI R-line is distinctly different from the conventional Passat TSI (1.4-liter model). It features a 2-liter engine, an increase of approximately 600cc in displacement, derived from the sporty Golf GTI. As mentioned, its maximum output is 162 kW (220 ps) at 4,500-6,200 rpm, with a maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,500-4,400 rpm. It drives the front wheels through a 6-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission.

In addition to the increased displacement, a characteristic of this Passat is its sporty R-line styling. It is available in two body types: sedan and Variant (station wagon). Both feature exclusive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and for the Variant, a rear spoiler, along with 19-inch alloy wheels. The interior also boasts a sporty finish, with exclusive equipment such as Nappa leather sports seats, aluminum-look pedal clusters, and a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel.

"I believe the 1.4-liter model already offers sufficient performance,—" says a spokesperson for the local subsidiary, Volkswagen Group Japan.

"Some new customers seem to question whether a 1.4-liter engine can adequately power a car of this size (nearly 4.8 meters in length). We believe they would be convinced once they drive it. At any rate, dealers requested that we broaden the appeal of the Passat, so we decided to introduce the 2.0TSI R-line."

Indeed, the Passat offers a satisfying driving experience even with the 1.4-liter engine. However, the 2.0TSI R-line presents an entirely different presence.

Lively Engine and Agile Handling

How does the Passat 2.0TSI R-line differ from the conventional Passat TSI? Volkswagen Group Japan emphasizes its sporty nature, calling it a "model inheriting the lineage of the R series." As you know, R in Japan refers tohigh-performance models available for the Golf. However, applying the Golf's character directly to the Passat and having preconceived notions might not be beneficial for the Passat 2.0TSI R-line. I have my doubts.

In a word, the Passat 2.0TSI R-line is exceptionally well-executed. The engine is lively, and the handling is agile. As a sedan (though a station wagon is also available) that offers driving enjoyment, it possesses the capability to compete head-to-head with rivals from other German manufacturers.

The engine delivers ample torque from very low RPMs, resulting in excellent initial acceleration. When you press the accelerator pedal firmly, the sensation of acceleration is distinctly different from the 1.4-liter model. As the revs exceed 3,000 rpm, the engine note changes to a pleasant, high-frequency sound, enhancing the driving excitement.

Meanwhile, the steering wheel feels more responsive, including around the neutral position. The steering effort is lighter than in the 1.4-liter model, which is immediately noticeable, and the car's reaction speed feels quicker when driving. Here again, it effectively addresses an area I considered a slight weakness in the 1.4-liter version. The steering wheel, with its slim grip diameter, not only has a sporty flat-bottom design but also features a wonderfully supple leather texture that feels like it adheres to your palm, conveying a sense of premium quality.

There are other aspects that might lead one to think, "Perhaps this is the best Passat?"

Abundant Advanced Safety Features

If the engine is a major contributor to the Passat 2.0TSI R-line's unique character, then the DCC, or Adaptive Chassis Control as Volkswagen calls it, effectively complements it and enhances its appeal. This system allows for switching the damper's damping force between "Eco," "Comfort," and "Sport" modes. When driving on winding roads, utilizing the engine's broad torque band and enjoying its performance at higher revs, the Sport mode doubles the driving pleasure.

In Comfort mode, the ride quality is comfortable, and the interior noise level is low. The Passat's inherent strengths are well-preserved. Therefore, it can be said that this model allows you to fully experience both facets of the Passat's potential. Externally, the chrome grille and the balanced styling that combines elegance with a moderate sportiness exude a sense of luxury. In essence, it thoroughly meets the requirements expected of a modern sedan.

The interior is spacious and characterized by a clean design. Leveraging the long wheelbase of 2,790 mm and the front-wheel-drive mechanical layout, the rear seating space is also quite generous. While it could serve as a company car, its high-quality materials suggest it's better described as a premium family car. The Variant station wagon offers a vast luggage capacity of 650 liters, ensuring ample practicality. It successfully balances this utility with its stylish long-roof design.

Advanced safety features are also abundant. These include the Pre-crash Brake System with City Emergency Brake function that detects pedestrians, Rear Traffic Alert which brakes or mitigates collisions when reversing, Lane Keep Assist, and Lane Change Assist System, which intervenes with steering wheel operation when a vehicle is detected in the adjacent lane during a lane change.

Functional equipment includes Adaptive Cruise Control with automatic following of the preceding vehicle, and Traffic Assist, which provides acceleration, deceleration, and steering assistance in traffic jams.

The latest telematics function, called "Guide & Inform," is also installed. Its advantage lies in obtaining VICS information via a smartphone. Furthermore, it allows the use of Google Earth and Google Street View, enabling visual confirmation of the destination area beforehand, which enhances convenience. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also provided. Features like hands-free calling and email reading, in addition to music playback, are actually quite practical.

The Passat has undergone updates in various aspects. The 2.0 TSI R-line is the model that heralds this new era.

Volkswagen Passat 2.0TSI R-line
Body Dimensions | Length 4,785 x Width 1,830 x Height 1,460 mm
Wheelbase | 2,790 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,580 / 1,560 mm
Minimum Ground Clearance | 120 mm
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.4 meters
Weight | 1,510 kg
Engine | 1,984 cc Inline-4 Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 82.5 x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio | 9.6
Maximum Output | 162 kW (220 ps) / 4,500-6,200 rpm
Maximum Torque | 350 Nm (35.7 kgm) / 1,500-4,400 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed AT (DSG)
Drivetrain | FF
Suspension Front/Rear | MacPherson Strut / 4-link
Brakes Front | Ventilated Discs
Brakes Rear | Discs
Fuel Economy (JC08) | 15.6 km/ℓ
Tires Front/Rear | 235/40R19
Trunk Capacity | 586 liters
Steering Wheel Position | Right
Price | 4,999,800 yen

Volkswagen Passat Variant 2.0TSI R-line
Volkswagen Passat Variant 2.0TSI R-line
Body Dimensions | Length 4,775 x Width 1,830 x Height 1,485 mm
(TSI Highline, TSI R-line) Length 4,775 x Width 1,830 x Height 1,500 mm
Wheelbase | 2,790 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,580 / 1,560 mm
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.4 meters
Weight | 1,560 kg
Engine | 1,984 cc Inline-4 Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 82.5 x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio | 9.6
Maximum Output | 162 kW (220 ps) / 4,500-6,200 rpm
Maximum Torque | 350 Nm (35.7 kgm) / 1,500-4,400 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed AT (DSG)
Drivetrain | FF
Suspension Front/Rear | MacPherson Strut / 4-link
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Discs
Fuel Economy (JC08) | 15.0 km/ℓ
Tires Front/Rear | 235/40R19
Trunk Capacity | 650-1,780 liters
Steering Wheel Position | Right
Price | 5,199,000 yen