Volkswagen R

Under the label of the product brand "R" extremely sporty Volkswagen are developed. The current Golf R32 is the first one of the R-models and in its high performance takes center stage.

R-Models.
Already with the first Golf R32, still based on the fourth Generation of the bestselling Golf, Volkswagen fulfilled the request for an exclusively equipped and particularly superior motorized lead Golf. 14.000 models were sold, far more than expected. Based on this success the idea was born to develop an entire series of R-models in the future -- a typical job for Volkswagen Individual GmbH. Starting things off in 2005 was the second generation Golf R32, 184 kW / 250 hp strong and standard with the all wheel drive 4Motion. With this Golf, Volkswagen Individual not only put an extremely dynamic, but also very comfortable car on wheels. Character: superior understatement.

Volkswagen Individual GmbH has now created the twelve-piece R-Line Collection, first and foremost for the Golf IV. But Bora, New Beetle and Polo drivers are also going to benefit from it. The R-Line accessories have clear and distinctive lines and are an impressive complement to the previously available range of original accessories.

Volkswagen surprised more than a few attendees at the 2005 Specialty Equipment Market Association show with a trio of high-performance vehicles based on the automaker's R Series.

Working with its California design studio and HPA Motorsports, VW created new R GT editions of the Jetta and Passat sedans and the Touareg utility vehicle, all of which push the boundaries of street performance.

The vehicles share some common elements: Each is fitted with an HPA-modified, twin-turbocharged 3.2-liter V6 that drives all four wheels through a DSG twin-clutch transmission that's been beefed up to handle the extra torque. All three ride on Michelin performance rubber and Avus forged aluminum wheels and get KW three-way coil-over race suspension and Brembo brakes.

The Jetta R GT is painted Smoke Gray and features new front and rear bumper fascias, side rocker panels, and a rear spoiler. The cockpit boasts an integrated roll cage, black leather Recaro race buckets with Schroth harnesses, and a Stack F1-style electronic gauge cluster.

The Passat R GT is painted Candy White. Inside, the cabin is trimmed in black leather and piano white lacquer. Features include an Apple iPod module up front, a Sony PSP in the rear and a full navigation system.

The Touareg R GT is painted silver, and gets black leather sport buckets with gray suede centers, a Bugatti spun-aluminum trim kit by Volkswagen Individual, an Apple iPod module and a rear PSP system.

(source: Edmunds)