Volkswagen Golf R 400 concept unveiled in Beijing
Volkswagen reveals the VW Golf R 400 concept at Beijing Motor Show 2014
VW has unveiled a new Golf R 400 concept, at the Beijing Motor Show. The concept marks 40 years since the VW Golf was first launched, with VW claiming it ‘reflects the sporty potential of the model series.
The car boasts a power to weight ration of 3.4bhp per kilo - "racing car figures," according to Volkswagen member of the board of management, Dr Heinz-Jakob Neusser. And he dropped a hint that the car could make production at some stage when he said: "What we have to do now is build it."
Retaining 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.
At the rear, new warp-around motorsport carbon effect splitters merge with the protruding diffuser and two central exhausts pipes replace the quad tailpipe setup on the standard Golf R – harking back to 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.
For all the latest from the 2014 Beijing Motor Show, click here.
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