Volkswagen Unveils Sport 2018 Passat GT in Detroit

Volkswagen used the North American International Auto Show in Detroit to debut the 2018 Passat GT Special model which was first previewed by a concept back in L.A. in 2016. The GT joins the Passat lineup for 2018 as a limited-run special model based off the R-Line trim and will be available in four colours including Pure White, Reflex Silver, Platinum Grey and Deep Black. The Passat GT differentiates itself in many ways from a normal Passat which starts right up front with standard LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights and utilizing the R-Line bumper and adds a honeycomb grille, GT badge and a red accent line. The Passat GT will feature Volkswagen’s 3.6L VR6 engine under the hood that pushes out 280 horsepower and 6,200 rpm and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is paired to a standard six-speed DSG automatic transmission with Tiptronic and steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The Passat GT sits on a sport tuned suspension that is made to handle the VR6 power and gives it a more aggressive stance. Inside of the GT features carbon fiber optic décor, a piano black center console and trim and aluminum GT-badge door sills. In terms of infotainment, the Passat GT features a Composition Media unit with a 6.3-in. with standard Bluetooth, Voice Control and Volkswagen Car-Net App-Connect technology. In addition, the system offers smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink. No Canadian pricing or additional information has yet been announced, but the 2018 Passat GT is expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the second quarter of this year.