With the sixth generation of the Volkswagen Golf only a few months away, the mad scientists at Volkswagen are busy working to create an even hotter version of their GTi sport hatch. Although it won’t be as insane as the mid engine, rear wheel drive W12, the GTi-R promises to breath new life into the brand with and increase in both power and traction and a reduction in weight.

Instead of sticking with the large 3.2 liter V6 currently found in the R32, the GTi-R will receive a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine that produces 266 HP. This is believed to be the same engine that is slated to go in the upcoming Scirocco R20T and is currently in the GTi’s cousin the Audi S3. The GTi-R will also receive some form of Volkswagen’s all wheel drive system to help get the power to the ground. With a little more power the GTi-R would compete nicely against the Japanese all wheel drive turbo cars like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and Subaru Impreza WRX Sti. What is not clear at this point is the extent to which VW will lighten up the R version, dropping the V6 for a smaller equally powerful engine is a start, but will it be enough?

We might just have to wait until the Frankfurt Auto Show in September to find out, because that is when the GTi-R should make its official debut.

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