- VW will bring a version of the high-performance Golf R to the U.S. in 2012.
- It will be the fastest Golf production model ever sold in the U.S., VW said.
- The VW has not yet been officially named.
HERNDON, Virginia — 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.
Key details, such as the car's name and horsepower, are still up in the air, however.
"We're still working on the name," said Volkswagen of America spokesman Kerry Christopher in a phone conversation with Inside Line on Thursday. "There is the possibility that it could have a different name. But you can call it Golf R for now."
He said pricing has not been set either, but that it would be "competitive with the Subaru [Impreza WRX] STI." The 2011 Subaru WRX STI starts at $34,720, including a $725 destination charge.
Christopher was unable to provide exact technical specifications on the U.S. Golf R, saying that it "will have horsepower in the 270 range, but this has not been set yet, either."
In a statement, VW said the all-wheel-drive U.S. Golf R will have a "2.0-liter turbocharged engine with significant hp increase over GTI." The 2011 Golf GTI's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 200 horsepower. The U.S. Golf R will have a six-speed manual transmission only.
It will be available in two- and four-door configurations, said Volkswagen. 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.
Inside Line says: Glad to see a more serious Golf on the way. Now if VW can keep the price reasonable, it will really be an exciting prospect. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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jrhoglund1 says:
04:57 PM, 01/13/2011
34,000 are u kidding me! 25,000 maybe
dansmith says:
02:02 AM, 01/05/2011
GOLF-R:
This "could" be great news; so long as we don't get some weak-kneed, gelded version of the European car.
If you'll recall, "our" versions of the Corrado and Audi Quattro Coupe were just horrible, clumsy, and ridiculously overpriced. If this isn't a serious performance machine, there's no point even taking them off the boat.
This is going to be a hotly contested market segment going forward. And at this point, Hyundai/Kia is only just putting its toe in the water.
I'm expecting a 274-BHP Genesis Coupe very shortly. And if it's priced competitively with cars like this, the Golf R is going to get beaten like a Red Headed Stepchild. And don't forget the soon-to-arrive Ford Focus ST and Fusion GT. And can a Turbo Veloster be far behind? It's certainly got very distinctive styling, and younger buyers should naturally gravitate in its direction. It stands to be a very competitive player, so long as the Korean Company has mastered torque-steer problem.
Although the Hyundai-Kia Consortium really hasn't shown much to this point, they certainly have the necessary tools to swap punches with nearly anyone.
Only Subaru maintains an uncontested technological and performance edge without nosing into the lower reaches of Audi Territory. And I'm really happy to see this once marginal brand finally getting some serious traction. In pure engineering terms, they're nearly the equal of anyone South of the True Marquee Players. It's going to be a great deal of fun to watch this entire story play itself out. The selection should be outstanding.
k55 says:
09:54 AM, 12/22/2010
Considering that the 2011 Audi TT is now at 211 hp/258 Ft Lbs and the TTS is at 265 HP/258 Ft lbs it seems this TTS config is what we would get in the GOLF R. They are based on a similar chassis... and until very recently the TT had the same 200/207 engine as the GTI..............Now if only VW would get its Azz in gear and bring over the 211/258 engine for the GTI. That would suit me fine. I am deciding on an 11 GTI and an 11 Cooper S (181 hp /177ft lbs (192 with overboost). Tough decision as each has its pluses/minuses. If the 211/258 got here soon the balance would tilt to VW. I like the TT but not willing to pay 13k more for it over a GTI.
akitadog says:
10:45 AM, 12/10/2010
Yes!
Yesyesyesyesyes!!!!
4-door 6-speed manual! Yaaaaaayy!!!
Now, I have to scheme a way for my wife to let me buy it. My 2008 GTI doesn't even have 33K miles on it after almost 3 years, and getting into more debt is not an ideal plan at this time (new mortgage and renovation bills, paying the nanny). Of course, the GTI is paid off, and I could probably get a decent price for it... Hmmm.
Back to reality, I might have to get one used 3 or 4 years down the road, but you just KNOW that it will have been thrashed by the previous owner.
Also, is this going to be a 1-year run only like previous Rs?
bluff10 says:
10:44 AM, 12/10/2010
I like they will bring the 4 door version this time, but I am very disappointed at VW for not getting this car with DSG. I love manuals, but this is a everyday car and I'd love to have it with DSG so when I get stuck in traffic I can rely on DSG to do the 1/2 shifts for me. This does not work for me. Sorry VW.
joemt says:
10:09 AM, 12/10/2010
Unlike the R32, I'm pleased to see this will come to the states with a MT. I can sympathize with those disappointed with the decision to keep the DSG overseas. VW/Audi is confounding at times with their drivetrain choices.
delraylocal says:
08:03 AM, 12/10/2010
I have been waiting for this car to come here forever. I was so happy to hear that they are offering 4 doors here bc that is the one I wanted, but was totally bummed to hear they arent offering there awesome dsg auto.
I seriously dont want to drive a stick ever again. Getting stuck in traffic on I95 constantly shifting sucks the big one! Not to mention there dsg is solid.
I have some decisions to make in 2012 for sure. Someone is getting my money, I just don't know who yet.
purie says:
06:47 AM, 12/10/2010
I personally love hot hatches and the Ford Focus RS500 is defiantly on the top. But Ford is going to blow it big time with the new Focus ST thats bigger, less powerful and not as hardcore as the Focus RS.
VW has also raised a very big red flag with their car lately. As a enthusiast traction/stability control is the first button I reach for in my Evo X (it makes a big difference on my car). And VW does not allow for us to turn off the system completely and already has some reviews peeved (mostly Tiff from 5th gear).
If VW wants to back up their claim by trying to be number one by 2015 they must offer us cars more options. The 2011 GTI options is a utter joke, I dare anyone to configure one and figure out what your getting, IE: try to add xenons. I'm looking at you to Audi (S3, do it)
juan_mx says:
06:33 AM, 12/10/2010
Ford.....wake up.....bring the Focus RS to the US !!!!
Ford is selling the Focus RS in Mexico for the equivalent of $32,500 all taxes included, except sales tax (that in Mexico is 16%).
tdiluv says:
06:09 AM, 12/10/2010
Hope the next product annoucement from VW is the date when the TDI AMAROK pick-up is coming as I have check book in hand !!