The most powerful VW Passat ever has now gone on sale.
In a clear attempt by the firm to spruce up the rather dull image of their mid-sized saloon Volkswagen has squeezed in a 3.6-litre V6 and called it the R36.
The new engine develops 300bhp and has 258 lbs ft of torque and if the Golf R32 is anything to go by it will sound fantastic.
Drive is channelled via a six-speed DSG gearbox through a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system capable of diverting torque to either axle depending on the grip available.
This means that you can now by a Passat that can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds (saloon) or 5.8 seconds (estate).
Both models have been restricted to a top speed of 155mph.
The R36 has split opinion here at PH Towers but I'm going to stick my neck out and say I quite like the lunacy of a 300bhp Passat (I'll get me coat).
A set of 18-inch wheels housing Volkswagen ‘R’ blue brake callipers and a ride height lowered by 20 mm help distinguish the Passat R36 from its lesser repmobile cousins.
The car gets a set of Bi-Xe non headlights and three deep airdams in the new front bumper.
Inside there are unique front seats designed to offer greater lateral support and a sculpted sports steering wheel integrated into which are paddles for the DSG gearbox.
A set of recalibrated ‘R’ dials are fitted alongside turned aluminium dashboard highlights, alloy pedals and sill plates bearing the ‘R’ logo.
Prices for new Passat R36 start at £30,990 on-the-road for the saloon and £32,150 for the estate model.
Options include a choice of four colours ranging from silver to black, blue and grey.
A further option of 19-inch wheels will also be offered at a later date.
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