Volkswagen on Thursday said it is upping the ante with the Golf in the U.S. by bringing a version of the Europe-market Golf R here in 2012. It will be the fastest Golf production model ever sold the U.S., VW said.
The 2011 Subaru WRX STI starts at $34,720, including a $725 destination charge.
The 2011 Golf GTI's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 200 horsepower. Other details include an upgraded sport-tuned suspension, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, unique steering wheel and interior trim, exterior R model badge and body kit, R model shift knob, R model door sills and front and rear fascia with dual exhausts.
Volkswagen AG announced its plans to introduce the Volkswagen Golf R in the United States for the 2012 model year which will be the successor to the 2004 and 2008 R32. Volkswagen is often credited with creating the original hot hatch in 1983 with its Golf-based GTI, and this latest performance hatchback model will only deepen the legacy of the famed GTI. For improved handling, the Golf R will feature a sport-tuned suspension, retuned stability control settings and larger brakes.
Up front, the Golf’s economy-minded appearance is given a more aggressive look thanks to a reworked fascia with oversize air inlets. The Golf R also has a lowered stance that is accented by the exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels that feature a stylish five triple-spoke design. Like the previous R32 models, the Golf R will also receive a center exit exhaust with dual chrome tips.
The U.S. hasn’t seen a high performance, all-wheel drive version of the Volkswagen Golf since 2008 when the R32 was discontinued.
The car employs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, 4Motion all-wheel drive, and receives larger brakes and firmer suspension than the current GTI.”
While the Golf R employs the same size engine as the current Volkswagen GTI, expect a significant bump in horsepower. “While we enjoyed the energetic handling of the GTI Golf, the 200-hp turbo four-cylinder wasn’t the quickest in the segment,” says Cars.com. “The Golf R should correct that problem.”
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