New Passat R36 goes on sale
Tuesday, 29 April 2008 12:00 AM
The new Passat R36 rides 20mm closer to the ground because of its wheel setup
Volkswagen's new Passat R36 has been made available for purchase from dealerships across the UK. Described as the most powerful version of the car ever produced, it is available in either saloon or estate bodystyles.
A naturally-aspirated 3.6-litre V6 engine, developing 300 PS and 258 lbs/ft of torque, powers the new car, with drive channelled via a six-speed DSG gearbox through a 4Motion all-wheel drive system.
The saloon is capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds, while the estate takes 5.8 seconds. Both models have limiters in place to restrict top speed to 155mph.
A set of 18-inch wheels house blue brake callipers and lower ride height by 20mm. A new front bumper, featuring a trio of deep airdams, is joined by distinctive chrome grille section. A set of bi-xenon headlight units complete the changes from the previous range.
A set of twin tailpipes, routed to either side of the bumper, compliment a lip spoiler, with badging comprising of a simple R36 logo and the usual Volkswagen roundel.
As for the interior, the front seats are designed to offer greater lateral support, set behind a sculpted sports steering wheel. Integrated into this are paddles for the DSG gearbox. Recalibrated R dials are fitted alongside turned aluminium dashboard highlights, alloy pedals and sill plates bearing the same logo.
Prices start at £30,990 OTR for the sallon and £32,150 for the estate model. Options include a range of four colours (silver, black, blue and grey), with 19-inch wheels also available at a later date.
