Volkswagen’s Passat GT concept car has been revealed, previewing a hot model destined for the US. The concept is due to be showcased at the LA motor show this week.

The Passat GT concept uses a 3.6-litre VR6 six-cylinder engine that produces 284hp and a six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. It’s based on the seventh-generation Passat, which is still on sale in the US in facelifted form.

The concept car, which sits 15mm lower than usual, receives over 20 design changes compared with the regular Passat. These include a Golf GTI-inspired honeycomb grille with a red surround, black window surrounds, a black roof and boot spoiler, LED headlights and smoked tail lights. It also gets angular exhaust surrounds, 19-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers.

Interior features include a carbon-fibre-effect trim on the doors and instrument panel, two-tone black and grey sports seats with contrasting stitching, a black headliner and piano-black centre console trim.

“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 Matthias Erb, Volkswagen’s North American region CEO.

Volkswagen’s Passat GT concept is expected to influence a Passat GT production model set for release in the US next year.