Volkswagen Confirms Golf R For United States

Well, we’ve got some good news and some bad news, but luckily it’s mostly good news. Volkswagen confirmed that it will be bringing its highest performance Golf model to the United States. That’s the good news. The bad news is that the Golf R will take over a year to get here. Still, if you’re a fan of small, agile hatchbacks, or of VWs in general, the “most powerful Volkswagen sports performance vehicle ever built” should prove worth the wait.

The Golf R earns that distinguished designation with an upgraded version of its 2.0-liter turbo four also seen on the GTI. On the GTI, the engine’s limited to 200 horses, but it will get a “significant hp increase” on the U.S.-spec Golf R. Volkswagen didn’t commit to how many horses we’re talking, but on the European Golf R, 270 powerful steeds lurk under the hood.

In addition to extra power, Golf R drivers will enjoy a sport-tuned electronic stability program, the 4th-gen Haldex 4Motion all-wheel drive system, bigger brake rotors and uprated sport-tuned suspension. They’ll also get the benefit of a six-speed manual gearbox, the only option that VW plans to offer. On the outside, Volkswagen will add an R body kit, 18-inch alloy wheels, R model front and rear fascias, center-mounted dual exhaust and R badging. The model will come in 2- and 4-door options.

While behind the wheel, drivers won’t forget that they’re in an R model thanks to a unique steering wheel, special trim, an R shift knob and R door sills.

Volkswagen has not announced pricing information –plenty of time to set that up — nor has it indicated exactly when in 2012 the model will hit the market. We expect to see more information, along with a U.S.-spec Golf R, at one of the major auto shows next year, likely Detroit or New York.

Source: Volkswagen