Confirmed: Volkswagen's Golf R Headed to the U.S. in 2012

Confirmed: Volkswagen's Golf R Headed to the U.S. in 2012

Good news, VeeDub fans: after much debate, Volkswagen's decided to bring its hot, all-wheel-drive Golf R to the United States in time for the 2012 model year.

Power on the U.S.-spec R20 will be a "significant" boost above the current GTI's 200 horsepower. In Europe, the R produces 270 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque and is mated to a manual or DSG transmission (only the manual will be available in the U.S.). The claimed 0-62 mph time is 5.5 seconds with the DSG and 5.7 seconds with the manual on to a top speed of 155 mph.

The Golf R will arrive in the U.S. in 2012 in two- and four-door forms. The latest version of the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system and an upgraded sport suspension help increase this Golf's handling abilities. Better brakes are also part of the package. Of course, no limited-edition performance car like this would be complete without a number of visual add-ons. You'll find unique 18-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel, shift knob, door sills, front and rear fascia with dual exhaust, and unique interior trim. The European model is shown here.

When the Golf R finally arrives in the U.S., at what price should Volkswagen offer it to compete with the Subaru Impreza WRX and Mitsubishi Lancer Evo models?

The official announcement from Volkswagen is below:

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

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Source: http://rumors.automobilemag.com/6735630/news/confirmed_volkswagens_golf_r_headed_to_the_us_in_2012/index.html

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