Australian fast-Volkswagen fans will be able to buy the 206kW Volkswagen Passat R-Line from November with prices starting at $57k.

THE 2017 Volkswagen Passat R-Line sedan and wagon will go on-sale here in November. Prices will start at $57,990+ORC for Passat R-Line sedan and step up to $59,990+ORC for the wagon. Both models will be available in November with the only cost option being either metallic or pearlescent paint at $700 or a panoramic glass roof for $2000.

Under the bonnet is a 206kW 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol that will propel the sedan to 100km/h in just 5.5 seconds. Volkswagen’s on-demand all-wheel drive system 4MOTION is standard as is a six-speed DSG and adaptive chassis control.

Beyond the engine and drivetrain, the R-Line gets an exclusive body kit, 19-inch alloy wheels, Dynamic LED headlights and unique badging. Inside, it gets leather-trimmed R-Line seats, flat-bottom multi-function sports steering wheel with paddle shifters and alloy pedals. “As part of Volkswagen’s MY17 product updates, the R-Line also comes with the new Active Info Display, which premieres in the new Tiguan SUV,” Volkswagen said.

While Golf’s GTI and R model hatchbacks are best sellers, General Manager of Sales for Volkswagen Passenger Vehicles Ryan Davies said there “remains a strong appetite for a sporting Volkswagen sedan and wagon.

“You need only look around – there’s any number of lovingly maintained R36s on the road. While the Passat remains one of our most well-appointed and comfortable cruisers, the R-Line is a genuine performance car – not just a sports kit. It’s both a worthy successor to the R36 and a car to throw a fright into the prestige brands.”