Volkswagen Passat Performance Concept front three quarters 300x187 imageVW says it’s the same 1.8-liter, direct-injected turbo-four that’s already offered in European and Asian markets. U.S.-spec Passats are offered with a 2.0-liter TDI turbodiesel I-4, a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter I-5, and a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V-6. While the 2.0-liter TDI achieves excellent fuel mileage (35 mpg combined with the six-speed manual transmission), it’s could hardly be described as sporty or quick, needing 9.1 seconds to run from 0-60 mph in our most recent test. The Passat V-6 is much quicker, with an as-tested 5.7-second 0-60 mph time, but EPA-rated mileage falls behind a few competitors, at 20/28 mpg city/highway. That said, VW could bring the 1.8-liter engine to power a sport-oriented Passat as well as other models in its U.S. lineup.
In addition to its turbo-four, the Passat Performance concept car features a lowered ride height and tweaked steering. It also sports a number of visual enhancements including dual exhaust tips, 19-inch rims, LED taillights, and carbon-fiber-like mirror caps. Inside, the seats are covered in two-toned leather and the dashboard features carbon-fiber-like accents.
Volkswagen Tiguan R Line front three quarters 300x187 imageAt the 2013 Detroit auto show, Volkswagen is also debuting the Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line models. For the Tiguan, the special model rides on 19-inch rims, a color-matched body kit, fender flares, rear spoiler, LED license plate illumination, and an R-Line badge on the grille. Inside, the Tiguan R-Line gets a flat-bottom steering wheel, stainless-steel scuff plates, aluminum sport pedals, and black headliner. The R-Line package is available on the SEL trim model in front- or all-wheel drive configuration. Audiophiles will also be able to opt for VW’s Fender sound system.
Visual modifications to the Touareg R-Line mimics the Tiguan, save for larger 20-inch rims. The Touareg R-Line will also benefit from a sport-tuned suspension. The sportier package is available for the Touareg Lux model equipped with the 3.0-liter VR6 or 3.0-liter TDI clean diesel.
VW hasn’t announced pricing for the R-Line crossovers, but both are expected to arrive in showrooms sometime this fall. They will be the latest global additions to the R-Line variants, which currently include the CC and Beetle coupe.
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