The Rockstar’s race-prepped Passat is ready to set the roads ablaze at the 2015 Formula Drift, the biggest drift racing event in the U.S. With this move, the 2015 Formula Drift will probably be able to put to rest its previous image of a ‘front-drive family car’.

The new VW Passat though seemingly innocuous actually packs a punch; the rear-wheel drive is powered by a 7.4-litre V8 with 700 horsepower and another 200 extra coming from nitrous oxide boost for bursts of speed.

To ensure a spectacular entrance, the VW Passat will be driven by legendary drift driver, Tanner Foust, who has already won the title twice; once in 2007 and again in 2008. Tanner will be returning to the series after a five-year hiatus. The Formula Drift series is expected to start from June 4th and last until June 7th in Austin, Texas.