While VW is working on a successor for the MkV Golf, its engineers haven't finished with the current machine.
Test drivers are evaluating a final flagship for the hatchback range, badged the R36. Powered by the 3.6-litre V6 that debuted in the Passat, the car will offer between 280 and 300bhp. Due on sale early next year, it will hit the road 12 months ahead of the March 2008 debut of the new-look Golf.
The model is based on the four-wheel-drive R32, but the increased performance means changes will be made to the suspension and brakes. Extra cooling will also be required to feed cold air to the bigger engine.
With an additional 50bhp, the new car is expected to be able to sprint from 0-60mph in only 6.0 seconds, while the maximum speed will be limited to 155mph. However, in-gear performance is likely to give the R36 its greatest appeal, although the engineers' biggest challenge will be retaining the light, direct steering and supple ride of the brilliant Golf GTI.
Test drivers are evaluating a final flagship for the hatchback range, badged the R36. Powered by the 3.6-litre V6 that debuted in the Passat, the car will offer between 280 and 300bhp. Due on sale early next year, it will hit the road 12 months ahead of the March 2008 debut of the new-look Golf.
The model is based on the four-wheel-drive R32, but the increased performance means changes will be made to the suspension and brakes. Extra cooling will also be required to feed cold air to the bigger engine.
With an additional 50bhp, the new car is expected to be able to sprint from 0-60mph in only 6.0 seconds, while the maximum speed will be limited to 155mph. However, in-gear performance is likely to give the R36 its greatest appeal, although the engineers' biggest challenge will be retaining the light, direct steering and supple ride of the brilliant Golf GTI.