Volkswagen has announced that the Golf R will be sold in the US from 2012.
The Golf R will be the new range-topper among Golfs in the US, with the GTI previously being the best Golf money could buy. While US engine specs haven’t been revealed, the European variant is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four, putting out 270 horsepower. That power is transferred to all four wheels through a Haldex AWD system, propelling the R from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 5.7 seconds. While Europe can cut that time down to 5.5 seconds with an optional DSG gearbox, the US-bound Golf R will only be available with a six-speed manual. We’re sure someone out there is complaining, but that’s fine by us.
Performance aside, the interior is also treated to some upgrades, such as improved trim, a new steering wheel, and R division door sills and shift knob. And, of course, you can’t miss the new bodykit on the exterior.
VW hasn’t specified during what part of 2012 the car will begin sales, nor when the car makes its US debut (Although we reckon it’ll happen at January’s Detroit Auto Show). But that doesn’t matter really. What does matter is that the US will be getting another great hot hatch, even if a little patience is required.
Press Release
GOLF R KEY MESSAGES
The European Golf R is simply the most powerful Volkswagen sports performance vehicle ever built. The car delivers the ultimate Volkswagen driving experience with dynamic handling, refined road manners and unprecedented power for a Golf. It is Volkswagen’s performance halo vehicle, and at the request of VW enthusiasts, the company is bringing it to the U.S. in 2012.
Key attributes:2.0L turbocharged engine with significant hp increase over GTI
4th generation Haldex 4Motion – all wheel drive
Increased rotor diameter translating to improved braking
Sport tuned ESP
Upgraded sport tuned suspension
2 door or 4 door
Manual Transmission Only
Unique 18“ alloy wheels
Unique steering wheel
Unique interior trim
Exterior R model badge and bodykit
R model shift knob
R model door sills
R model front and rear fascia with dual, center exit, exhaust
Source: Volkswagen