The new Volkswagen Passat GT concept, designed by the company’s North American Engineering and Planning Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee, was unveiled this week at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. It previews a potential addition to the Passat lineup.
For the development, Volkswagen used extensive feedback from U.S. customers and dealers. More than 20 design changes were made, starting with a black honeycomb grille insert with red accent lines that harken to those on the Volkswagen Golf GTI. Unique bumper treatments, black window surrounds, a black roof and trunk spoiler, LED headlights, smoked taillights, a dual trapezoidal exhaust, and a sport muffler complete the exterior upgrades. There are also 19” Tornado wheels hiding red-painted brake calipers.
The interior of the Passat GT concept features carbon-fibre pattern door trim and instrument panel, black-and-grey sport seats with contrast stitching, a black headliner, and piano black centre console trim.
As for performance, the company’s 3.6L VR6 engine produces 280 horsepower through a 6-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters. A 0.6” reduction in ride height increases stability, if only marginally.
