Volkswagen has debuted the 2018 Passat GT special model at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
The new model was designed at VW's North American engineering hub in Chattanooga and is expected to be made at the automaker's Enterprise South industrial park assembly plant.
The special model based of the automaker's R-line trim joins the Passat lineup for model year 2018. The limited run vehicle adds more than 20 sporty interior and exterior enhancements to the Passat, according to VW.
It will offer a 3.6-liter VR6 engine paired with a lowered suspension and sport exhaust, the company said in a statement. EPA estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Shifting is handled by a standard six-speed DSG automatic transmission with Tiptronic, which features steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the company said.
The vehicle will be available in four exterior colors - Pure White, Reflex Silver, Platinum Grey and Deep Black.
"The Passat GT illustrates how the North American region can shape Volkswagen vehicles specifically for the U.S. market," said Dr. Matthias Erb, VW's chief engineering officer for the region. "Combining a local perspective with our global engineering expertise allows us to create vehicles that meet the needs and desires of customers here."
The Passat GT is expected to arrive at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the second quarter of 2018. Pricing for the car starts at $29,090. The destination charge is an additional $850.