The Passat that Volkswagen sells in the United States is significantly different to the one it sells in Europe (and South Africa). Next year, North America will finally move its version onto the MQB platform, but not before the model has had a VR6-flavoured swansong.
Yes, this is the Passat GT, which has officially debuted at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Previewed by a concept back in 2016, the special edition model is based on the R-Line trim and will be available in the US in four exterior colours (white, silver, grey and black).
The Passat GT boasts standard LED headlamps, a honeycomb grille, GT badging and a red accent line inspired by the Golf GTI. There’s also a black roof, black side-mirror caps and two-tone 19-inch “Tornado” wheels (framing red-painted brake callipers). A sports suspension system lends the Passat GT a more planted stance.
Round back, you’ll find a subtle black spoiler and blackened LED taillamps, while the rear bumper houses more black trim and dual exhaust exits (complete with an “acoustic package”). Inside, there’s yet more black trim along with a sprinkling of added standard equipment.
So, back to that powerplant. The Passat GT uses Volkswagen’s 3,6-litre VR6 engine, producing 209 kW and 350 N.m. A six-speed DSG transmission comes standard, along with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Needless to say, this model won’t be offered outside of North America…
