VW unveils Golf R400 in Beijing

VolkswagenVolkswagenGermany, 1938 > present98 models
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chose Beijing to unveil the first of a series of new concepts of the Golf that will help demonstrate the new capabilities of customization and performance of the compact model. The R400Volkswagen Golf R400Germany, 2014 > present is a Golf hatchback supercar, whose 400hp give a new dimension to the model's seventh generationVolkswagen Volkswagen Golf Gen.7 [VII]Germany, 2012 > present363 versions
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The Golf R R400 was developed by Volkswagen's R division in a program whose main objective was to show the engineering capabilities and highlight the range of possibilities of customization of vehicles of the German brand.

The three-door hatchback is based on the same mechanical package that was introduced in the Golf RVolkswagen Golf RGermany, 2014 > present and that aims to compete with the recent investments of German brands in premium hot hatchbacks like the Mercedes-Benz A45 AMGMercedes-Benz A45 AMGGermany, 2013 > present7 photos
, BMW M235iBMW M235i Coupé RacingGermany, 2013 > present and the Audi RS3.

The Golf R400 is equipped with a more powerful version of the new 2.0-liter engine (EA888) of the Golf R, whose engineering was overseen by the Director of Engine Development at Volkswagen, Fritz Eichler.

The new concept has more 104hp than the already powerful Golf R. Thanks to this engine from the R division the Golf R R400 can reach 100km/h in 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 280km/h.

In order to optimize the increase of engine power, Volkswagen has equipped the R400 with an automatic six-speed dual-clutch gearbox and the latest version of the four-wheel drive multi-plate clutch system 4Motion, a combination that had also been explored in the new Golf R.

The 4Motion system constantly changes the amount of traction sent to the front and rear axles, depending on the prevailing levels of traction. Operates in combination with the EDS and XDS+ locking differential, integrated into the electronic stability control (ESP) multi-function system of the Golf R400. This system includes a sport function that allows a less aggressive intervention of electrics when driving conditions allow it.

The design of the powerful three-door hatchback is more aggressive than previous concepts based on the best-selling Volkswagen. Thus, the R400 has a deeper bumper that includes carbon fiber elements, including a large splitter. The inlets have also suffered major modifications to achieve to send a greater amount of air to the engine compartment and the front brakes.

On the side the vehicle receives carbon fiber mirrors and subtle sill extensions. In the rear protrudes the carbon fiber spoiler on the tailgate, the deeper bumpers also with carbon fiber elements, the vertical ducts on both ends and the two exhaust points integrated on the carbon fiber diffuser.

Furthermore the design of the vehicle includes yellow accents on the LED headlamps, the grille and the brake calipers to further distinguish it from the Golf R. The new concept also receives chrome and yellow R400 badges within the grid within, along the flanks and on the tailgate.

Inside, the Golf R400 also undergone changes comparing it with the Golf R, with updated instruments and carbonfibre backed shell seats, combined with touches of carbon fiber and yellow stitching.

There is still no confirmation wether the Golf R400 will hit the market, but it will surely draw attention of many fans of VW.