Vehicle: 2010 VW Passat R36 Wagon
Price as tested: CDN$52000

Performance: What “R” stands for in VW is exactly like what “S” stands for in Audi, its the performance version of the more sedate silibing. The 3.6 liter DOHC 24-valve VR6 has been messaged to a potent 300 horses and, most importantly, 300 lb/ft of torque. As proven as VW’s VR series of powertrain, the R36 is the last of the great breed. That’s primarily because VR engine series has entered the final phase of the lifecycle, after nearly 2 decades serving VW family. Another reason is this engine will no longer able to withstand the tough emission regulations currently dictated by the governments. Despite that, with an impressive 300 hp and lb/ft of torque; its able to move the heavy 1747kg Passat wagon with authorty off-the-line. The credit has to go to VW’s proud Direct Shfit Gearbox. This dual clutch gearbox is not only have the uncanny abilities to rev match, heel and toe for the enthuisast. Its also able to provide exceptional efficiency and economy. On the other hand, the paddle shifters on the steering wheel are able to drop a gear on whenever gear. With all of these great engineering put through the powertrain, its able to make the R36 from launch to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. What is impressive judging by its weight. Even if VR6 has entered the final phase of its lifespin, its level of refinement and engine note really intoxicating. The low-range, is as expected, responsive. Both the mid and upper ranges won’t run out of breath even when driver pushed hard.

Handling: The level of marvelous engineering continues through the chassis. While the standard Passat platform has been known for its solid and well-made, the recalibrated suspension has taken it into new height. The suspension is firm and well-planted, without feeling harsh and ungainly, on washboard pavements. Even when driven through patholes and expansion joints, R has the uncanny abilities to absorb all those roughness with ease. Unlike many so-called sports cars, R36′s ride quality is as impressive as its driving experience. The power steering provides plenty of response and sharpness, without feeling twitchy. Its precise without feeling overly sensitive. Although it uses front-bias Haldex AWD, unlike previous Passat did. There are minimal understeer when pushed. The ESP has acted reasonably uninstrusive whenever driver wants to push the R into the envalope. As for the amount of body rolls, once again, exceptionally well-controlled and composed. The R36 is a dynamically delightful sportswagon.

Brakes: With large 4-wheel discs and standard ABS, the R stops amazingly given its curb weight. The stopping distance is short. Pedal always feels solid and reassuring to driver’s right foot. Its also fade-free after a couple of harsh stops. Another credit has to be its ABS only acts up necessarily.

Interior: Being a family wagon, VW has done a great job on designing a superbly layout luggage area. It all begins with a low liftover, then add a boxy cargo area which add extra versatility. Not to mention the rear seats can completely fold down with all those tie-downs and cubbyholes. It makes us wonder why would anyone buy a Tiguan and Touraeg.

The single biggest highlight to R36 is the wonderfully supportive leather/Alcantara sports seats. They are able to haul driver in all the right places without feeling confining. The use of tasteful aluminum trim has added a sense of sportiness to Passat’s usual interior layout. All the switchgears have a high-quality tactical feel, the use of plastic materials in the cabin are top-notch. Automatic climate control and stereo are both initutive.

As always with Passat, the rear legroom and headroom are spacious. Its also comfortable enough for 3 passengers aboard, which can’t say about in many of R36′s peers.

Conclusion: Passat R36 is definitely be a great sent off to VW’s legendary VR6 engine series. The wagon has answered the question which many have asked when buying a family car but without sacifice the joy of driving. If you want a family wagon but want the driving pleasure of a sports car, the Passat R36 has done this job relatively well. It also has done it with a huge price advantage over many of its much more expensive competitions.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2010 VW Passat R36 Wagon
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Performance: 5/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 5/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 5/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 5/5
Value-for-money: 5/5

Overall rating: 5/5