Volkswagen has introduced the 2018 Passat GT — a limited-edition model that adds almost two dozen sport-focused design enhancements to the midsize sedan.
Designed by Volkswagen's North American engineering hub, the 2018 Passat GT comes with components that were added based feedback the German automaker received from U.S. customers and dealers.
"Combining a local perspective with our global engineering expertise allows us to create vehicles that meet the needs and desires of customers here," said Dr. Matthias Erb, chief engineering officer for Volkswagen North America.
Based on the R-Line trim, the 2018 Passat GT's front fascia features a honeycomb grille, GT badging, a red accent line, LED headlights and LED daytime running lights. The addition of a sport suspension translates to a wider stance and more aggressive appearance.
The exterior also comes with black roof, mirror caps, window, door trim and rear spoiler, as well as 19-inch two-tone Tornado alloy wheels, red-painted brake calipers, blackened LED taillights and double exhaust pipes with the acoustic package.
Customers will be able to choose from four exterior paint colors: Pure White, Reflex Silver, Platinum Gray and Deep Black.
Meanwhile, inside the cabin, the 2018 Passat GT features a piano black center console and vent trim, a carbon fiber optic décor, black headliner and GT-badged aluminum sill plates. There are black leatherette seats with Moonrock Gray inserts and contrast stitching. The front seats come with heating function while the driver's seat is eight-way power adjustable.
The interior also comes standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, satellite radio and a 6.3-inch infotainment system. The latter features Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink connectivity.
The sporty sedan is powered by a 3.6-liter VR6 engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The 2018 Volkswagen Passat GT will be available at dealerships in the second quarter of 2018. The sporty sedan has a starting price of $29,090, with an additional $850 charge for destination.
