VW Unveils 2010 R20 Hot Hatch

Before we’ve even had the chance to get behind the wheel of the 2010 Volkswagen Golf and the enthusiast-oriented TDI and GTI variants, VW used the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show to unveil its high-performance Golf model, the all-new R20. Much like the 2004 and 2008 Volkswagen R32, the R20 will be a limited-production, hot hatch based on the three-door Golf. In true Volkswagen fashion, the R20 is a refined competitor to street-legal rally cars such as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI and the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.

Building on the stunning performance of the original hot hatch, the Golf GTI, the 2010 R20 will replace the R32’s 3.2-liter VR6 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that pumps an estimated 270 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. With significantly more power and torque than the 2008 R32, VW expects 0-60 mile per hour times in around 5.5 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. For added performance and handling, the R20 will also be equipped with VW’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system, and it is also likely that the sole transmission option will be VW’s DSG dual-clutch transmission – possibly the seven-speed variant that will be found in the 2010 Golf TDI. Details haven't been released about the suspension upgrades, but we expect the R20 to offer a firmer suspension, more responsive steering and a lower ride height.

Visually, the R20 will have a more menacing presence than the 2008 R32 thanks to a deeper front fascia that houses Audi R8-inspired air vents. Similar to a Porsche 911 Turbo, the R20 will feature LED turn signals and daytime running lamps mounted at the upper edge of the vents. The natural scowl of the sixth-generation Golf’s face is also enhanced with redesigned, blacked-out headlamps and a low chin spoiler. The signature center-outlet dual exhaust in the rear will carry over to the R20, but unfortunately the distinctive blue-painted brake calipers will not. Replacing the recent R32’s 10-spoke alloy wheels, the R20 will get a more stylish set of five-spoke, vented alloys that better accentuate the car's lowered ride height. As if the exhaust outlets weren’t a dead giveaway to the R20’s lineage, a more aggressive rear spoiler and LED taillights also help to get the message across.

To go along with its sporty exterior and powerful drivetrain, Volkswagen also tweaked the interior to give the car a cabin worthy of the R20 nameplate. Obvious upgrades compared to the basic Golf hatchback include the sport steering wheel and racing bucket seats (both embossed with the R logo). The new front seats add side bolstering for the torso and legs, but all seating surfaces will get stylish perforated leather with suede-like inserts and contrasting stitching for added effect. The R20’s cabin ditches the R32’s gaudy metallic trim in place of a more stylish aluminum trim on the instrument panel, door panel and shift bezel. As was the case with the R32, option packages will most likely be limited to choosing whether or not you want the upgraded navigation/audio system.

The R20 will be available later this year in Germany, but no word yet as to when or if it will be coming to North America. Following the seemingly four-year cycle of R model offerings, we hope that the newest R20 won’t have to wait for the 2012 model year to arrive in the U.S. While availability and pricing haven’t been announced yet, we’re guessing the 2010 R20 will follow the trend set by its predecessors with a limited run of around 5,000 and a starting price in the mid-$30,000 range.