Good news, VW fans—the 2018 Passat GT has arrived just ahead of the Detroit auto show. Just like the concept that debuted in 2016, the production Passat GT packs a narrow-angle 3.6-liter VR6 engine that offers 280 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The V-6 is mated to a standard six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. VW says its EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19/28 mpg (city/highway).
“The Passat GT illustrates how the North American Region can shape Volkswagen vehicles specifically for the U.S. market,” said Dr. Matthias Erb, Volkswagen CEO, in a statement.
“Combining a local perspective with our global engineering expertise allows us to create vehicles that meet the needs and desires of customers here.”
The Passat GT is based on the R Line trim, and borrows that model’s bumper. The GT further adds a honeycomb grille, GT badge, and red accent line reminiscent of the GTI. The roof is black and so are the mirror caps, window, and door trim.
It rolls on two-tone 19-inch “Tornado” wheels that sport red-painted brake calipers. Around back there’s a black spoiler, blackened LED taillights, black bumper trim, and a dual exhaust.
Inside, the GT touts a piano black center console, carbon-fiber bits, black headliner, and aluminum GT-badged sills. Seats are made from black leatherette with Moonrock Gray inserts and contrast stitching.
Other standard goodies include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, eight-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and heated side mirrors. Tech-wise there’s an infotainment unit with 6.3-inch touchscreen display that’s Apple CarPlay- and Android Auto-friendly.
The GT joins the 2018 Passat lineup as a limited-run special model based off the R-Line trim. It’s available in four flavors—Pure White, Reflex Silver, Platinum Gray, and Deep Black.
The 2018 Passat GT is expected to arrive at dealers in the spring priced starting at $29,940.
Source: Volkswagen