Volkswagen's most powerful Passat ever produced, the Passat R36, is on sale now priced at £30,990.

The new model is powered by VW’s 298bhp 3.6-litre V6 engine which is linked to a six-speed DSG automatic transmission. The saloon version will hit 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds while the estate takes 5.8 seconds. Both models have limiters in place to restrict the top speed to 155 mph.

The R36 gets 18-inch wheels, ride height lowered by 20mm, new front bumper, twin tail pipes and a lip spoiler.

Interior additions include unique front seats, sports steering wheel ‘R’ dials aluminium dashboard, alloy pedals and sill plates bearing the ‘R’ logo.

Prices for new Passat R36 start at £30,990 for the saloon and £32,150 for the estate model. Options include a choice of four colours ranging from silver to black, blue and grey. A further option of 19-inch wheels will also be offered at a later date.

As with the Golf R32 and Touareg R50 the Passat R36 was designed, engineered and developed by Volkswagen Individual.