Volkswagen is soon set to introduce an eight-generation Golf, and its range could be topped by a 400bhp ‘super hatch’.
According to a new report from motoring publication Autocar, an R Plus trim will join the fray and will be squared up against the likes of Mercedes-AMG’s upcoming A45 and Audi RS3. Building on the regular R, it’s said to take technology from the Golf TCR race car.
It’ll have supercar-rivalling performance, with a claimed sub-four second 0-60mph time and a 174mph top speed. The standard R is said to be retaining its current place in the range, rivalling Honda’s Civic Type R and Mercedes-AMG’s recently-introduced A35.
Volkswagen has teased the idea of a 400bhp Golf R before. In 2014, it showcased the R400 Concept, which utilised a heavily-reworked version of the R’s 2.0-litre petrol engine. This unit is expected to be utilised for the R Plus.
Autocar also suggests a ‘drift mode’ will be included, utilising electronic differential locks and a multi-stage stability control program to allow maximum sideways action.
Volkswagen hasn’t officially revealed the ‘Mk8’ Golf yet, though the firm has teased its existence. Expect to hear more on its later this year ahead of a 2020 introduction, though if the R Plus rumours are true, it will likely follow much later.
