The "R" badge signifies Volkswagen's high-performance premium line. Like the "Golf R32" released in 2002, the "Passat Variant R36" being launched is the top-grade Passat Variant, featuring a powerful engine and exclusive equipment.

The 3.6-liter "FSI" engine, an enlarged and specially tuned version of the 3.2-liter V6 found in the "Passat V6 4MOTION," produces 299 ps. Paired with the acclaimed 6-speed "DSG" transmission and "4MOTION" all-wheel drive, it is said to deliver stable driving performance in any road condition. The exclusive sports suspension, which supports the ride, offers three selectable modes: "Comfort," "Normal," and "Sport."

Its performance reaches 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h (records for German specifications).

The interior and exterior feature sporty accents such as a silver front grille, bumpers, rear spoiler, chrome twin exhaust pipes, and exclusive sports seats combining leather and Alcantara. It is also equipped with a full suite of features, including a terrestrial digital TV-compatible HDD navigation system, Optical Parking System (a new system that displays the distance to obstacles in front and rear of the vehicle on the navigation monitor), and a rearview camera.

The price is 5.9 million yen. Adding the optional electric glass sliding roof brings the total to an additional 210,000 yen.