Performance Volkswagen models R dying
Less room for hot R models in expanding VW rangeThe latest hero of the Golf Mark VI range has only just been launched in Australia -- the new Golf R -- but fans of the German manufacturer's performance arm will be disappointed to learn that on the cusp of one new model's arrival, another 'R' favourite will bite the dust.
The current 'R' line-up, now totalling three models (the new Golf R, Passat R36 pictured, and Touareg R50), is about to undergo a bit of a shakeup. New emission laws have forced a re-think of such brilliant powerplants as the sonorous 3.2-litre V6 engine (as found in Golf R32) in favour of more responsible propulsion, like the hot new 2.0-litre turbo unit pumping out a blistering 188kW/330Nm. It's also highly probable more 'R' models will face a similar fate.
Next in-line to receive turbo treatment is the upcoming 2011 Passat R, likely to make an appearance with the rest of the new Passat range next year. This, as you may by now have guessed, brings us to Touareg.
Speaking with Volkswagen's General Manager Press and PR, Karl Gehling, at last week's launch of the new Golf R, the Carsales Network learnt that the new Touareg range, also set to arrive in Australia next year, will be launched without the hyperactive performance model, the R50.
Furthermore, it seems the 'R' line-up will remain a two-horse race with Gehling telling the Carsales Network that Volkswagen has "no additional plans for an 'R' model Touareg at this stage".
The 2.5-tonne Touareg R50 was lauded for its over-the-top approach to performance off-road motoring, the twin-turbo 5.0-litre V10 diesel engine delivering a cracking 258kW/850Nm -- for performance figures more closely resembling hot-hatch acceleration times, with 0-100km/h knocked over in just 6.8 seconds.
Not only will the 'R' series end with Touareg, but future models elsewhere in the range are also in doubt, with Gehling saying the hot tip that was Tiguan R is set to remain a cosmetic package only. The Tiguan R-Line, introduced in late 2007, included a lowered ride height, body kit and large diameter alloy wheels, inciting rumours that an 'R' model Tiguan was on the way.
As for other 'R' models in the range, Volkswagen also recently confirmed that Polo R was off the table, the new Polo GTI deemed "hot enough" by VW's chief engineer, Dr Ernst Lindner. The major stumbling block for Polo is that its architecture doesn't lend itself readily to an all-wheel drive configuration -- reportedly a must have for all 'R' models.
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