VW will present the new 2018 Passat GT at the Detroit Auto Show as the sportiest member of the family, packing the company’s 280hp 3.6-liter VR6 engine.
Based off the R-Line trim, the new Passat GT is a limited-run special model designed in VW’s North American hub, based on extensive feedback from customers and dealers in the US.
On the outside the new Passat GT comes with standard LED headlights and DRLs and features the R-Line bumper but with a different, honeycomb grille. The red stripe is reminiscent of the Golf GTI and the roof is finished in black with matching door mirror caps.
A set of 19-inch Tornado alloy wheels, a black rear spoiler, a sportier rear bumper and a set of darkened taillights together with the dual exhaust tips complete the differences over the standard Passat models.
The 3.6-liter narrow-angle V6 engine makes 280hp and 258lb-ft of torque and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Fuel economy is EPA-rated at 9 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
The sporty theme continues inside, with the interior of the new Passat GT featuring black piano trim, carbon fiber optic décor, black headliner, and aluminum GT-badged sills. The seats are dressed with black leatherette and Moonrock Gray inserts.
VW says that the 2018 Passat GT will arrive at US dealers in the second quarter of 2018, with prices starting at $29,940, including a $850 destination fee.
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