Volkswagen Golf R 400 concept: Yes, 396bhp in a Golf!

Volkswagen reveals official drawings of the VW Golf R 400 concept ahead of its Beijing Motor Show 2014 debut

VW has released official sketches of a new Golf R 400 concept, which is set to debut at the Beijing Motor Show later this week. The concept marks 40 years since the VW Golf was first launched, with VW claiming the concept ‘reflects the sporty potential of the mode series.’ At this moment in time VW has stated there are no plans to develop a production model. 

Retain the iconic Golf shape, the low slung concept rides on a new 19-inch alloy wheel design and sits 40mm wider than the standard model. At the front there’s a more menacing bumper design with carbon effect inserts, while a high-gloss black radiator grille with yellow R detailing has also been added. The subtly flared wheel arches are also said to be inspired by the 1988 Rallye Golf G60.

Based on the standard Golf R, the concept features the same 2.0-litre TSI engine but it has been heavily revised to produce 395bhp and 450Nm of torque – up from the standard model’s 296bhp and 380Nm output. Power is put down via a six-speed dual clutch DSG gearbox and permanent Haldex all-wheel drive system. The performance boost is enough to slash a second off the sprint from 0-62, now complete in 3.9 seconds. Top speed has also increased to 174mph.

Although there are no rear or interior sketches, new warp-around motorsport carbon effect splitters will merge with the protruding diffuser. We’ve also been informed two central exhausts pipes will replace the quad tailpipe setup on the standard Golf R, which harks back the design of the 2002 Golf R32. A black roof and carbon fibre mirror caps complete the extreme look.

The motorsport theme is continued inside, with Alcantara and carbon leather bucket seats. The seats, steering wheel, door cards and floor mats are also trimmed in decorative yellow stitching. A glossy carbon fibre finish has been applied to accents on the dash and centre console.  

Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/volkswagen/golf/86656/volkswagen-golf-r-400-concept-yes-396bhp-in-a-golf#ixzz2z7Q6A82u