Designed in, for, and by North America.
The Passat has been the stalwart German large- and mid-size sedan across the globe, and as of recent, specifically for North America. While its lifespan has lasted decades, the real “hot” versions have been few and far between. Well, Volkswagen of America is looking to change that at Automobility LA with the new Passat GT concept that has some GTI-inspired DNA.
Designed by Volkswagen’s North American Engineering and Planning Center in Chattanooga, TN, the new Passat GT Concept is made for U.S. customers and dealers. Their feedback helped to create a more performance-oriented, exclusive model that boasts more than 20 design changes compared to the standard Passat.
“The Passat GT is an early example of how the new Volkswagen North American Region will meet the needs and desires of American customers going forward,” said Dr. Matthias Erb, Chief Engineering Officer, North American Region, Volkswagen. “We have the freedom and the responsibility to shape future North American vehicles here in the U.S., combining engineering resources from around the world with our unique perspective and talented local team.”
On the exterior side of things, the Volkswagen Passat GT Concept sports a black honeycomb grille surrounded by red accents and a prominent ‘GT’ badge. Both the front and rear bumper get new aesthetics alongside LED headlights and smoked taillights. Black window surrounds and side mirrors, a black roof spoiler, and black trunk spoiler add a more athletic look while ‘GT’ lettering sits on the bottom of the rear passenger doors.
For a more athletic and dynamic ride, the Volkswagen Passat GT Concept features a newly-tuned suspension that’s 0.6-inches lower for a better center of gravity. New 19-inch Tornado wheels are tasked with generating grip with their stickier tires and have red-painted brake calipers peeking out from behind.
Backing up all the fresh, new looks is a Volkswagen 3.6-liter TSI VR6 engine. The naturally-aspirated, loud-mouthed engine produces a meaty 280 horsepower and makes its presence heard through a trapezoidal exhaust system and sport muffler. A six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox seamlessly changes gears and provides a fun and engaging drive.
The new design changes continue to the interior of the Volkswagen Passat GT Concept. Here, two-tone black and grey seats with contrasting stitching hug their occupants while a carbon fiber pattern is worn on the door trims and instrument panel. A black headliner provides some contrast while a Piano Black center console trim adds a touch of class.
The new Volkswagen Passat GT Concept will make its debut at the Automobility LA show from November 14th to 17th at the LA Convention Center. There’s no word yet on if the concept will head towards production, but we’ll keep our fingers crossed.
Volkswagen Passat GT Concept Gallery
Source: Volkswagen
Should Volkswagen put the Passat GT Concept into production for the North American market?
