Volkswagen appears intent on rolling out its seventh-generation Golf line-up in record time — as revealed by these pictures of a prototype version of a new range-topping R model testing in Germany.
The new Golf R is set to join the Mk7 line-up by this time next year — more than a year earlier than traditional timing would dictate. It is expected to ditch its current ‘EA113’ 2.0 turbo engine for the more contemporary ‘EA888’ unit.
The new 2.0-litre turbo four-pot, which will also see service in the upcoming Audi S3, receives Audi’s patented valve lift system along with the latest in piezo-valve-guided direct injection.
Nothing is confirmed just yet, but VW officials hint at a slight increase in power ouput, with the peak likely to rise from the 266bhp of the outgoing model to somewhere in the region of 276bhp.
Power will continue to be channelled through a four-wheel drive system that uses a Haldex-style multi-plate clutch. Buyers will be offered either a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic that will replace today’s six-speed DSG.
