VOLKSWAGEN has taken the wraps off its new range-topping Passat – the R36.

Powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 300bhp through the firm’s 4Motion four-wheel drive system and DSG clutchless manual gearbox, the Passat R36 can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 5.6 seconds and has a top speed electronically limited to 155mph.

It goes on sale in the UK next August as either a saloon or estate. Prices have yet to be announced, but don’t expect too much change out of £30,000 for the estate model.

Only 250 examples will find their way into the UK next year and Volkswagen says it will act as a halo model for the rest of the range.