2017 Volkswagen Golf R Variant Caught Testing In Nürburgring

Oct 07, 2016 04:00 AM EDT | Mariechris Felipe

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf R Variant has been caught undergoing testing at the famous Nurburgring tracks. The spy photos show the new Golf R Variant with very few camouflage exposing some of its new design inspired by the facelifted 2017 Volkswagen Golf.

I Spy The Golf R Variant

The brutal version of the 2017 Volkswagen Golf, the R variant has been caught a few times by spy photographers. Last week, it was testing in the Alps and now it is testing in Nurburgring tracks.

This test unit in the Nurburgring carried a lot less camouflage than other spy photos seen before, so it allows us to look to its new design including a very aggressive air intake in the front.

In the lower area of the bumper we found a wide central mouth, flanked by two side openings of tapered design. Vinyl camouflage does not allow us to appreciate all its forms but it seems that it will have some thickened parts that crosses the same color as the body. Despite the heavy camouflage at the rear, we can still see how the internal distribution of optical rear has been modified, introducing a new lighting design.

On the side, we found a very striking piece of adhesive hiding a small object of the heel which in all probability should be wired fixed with adhesive as shown in the base of the pillar and might be connected to some sort of a sensor, can it be that the Type R will have some sort of semi autopilot version?

More Powerful Than Ever

The Volkswagen Golf R Variant is a popular German compact, and so far, the king of small sport compact family of European C segment, thanks to its engine 2.0 - liter supercharged 300 HP and 380 nm of torque. Expect this to be more powerful so it can beat its rivals like the Seat Leon Cupra ST, which has similar mechanical and similar horsepower and the Ford Focus ST Sportbreak with 250 hp.

Volkswagen will probably update the powertrain and slightly bump the output to 310hp and 400 nm of torque. At the same time, the six-speed DSG gearbox will be replaced by a seven-speed unit that will make cruising with the Golf R more efficient, comfortable and quieter.

However, rumor has it that an entirely new powertrain may be in plan too, and that the Golf R may have the bi-turbo 2.0 TDI from the Passat. That would explain why VW is placing so much focus on the Golf R Variant doing extensive testing cycle and the fact that left side of the exhaust system is covered in black soot.

Regarding the interior, everything points to premiere the new digital board and may also come with a change in the infotainment system as well as driving assistance function. When will we the 2017 Volkswagen Golf R in the market? Well, apparently, after the 2017 Volkswagen Golf which will debut late 2016 or early 2017.

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