Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept

At the 2014 Beijing Auto Show, Volkswagen unveiled the Golf R 400 Concept. The current VW Golf R production model manages to produce 300 horsepower, channeling the power to all four wheels, and posting a 0-60 mph time of just 4.9 seconds. But the Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept is designed to show just how much potential the car has.

The Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept was developed by Volkswagen R GmbH – the brand’s sports car manufacturer. It is powered by a 2.0 litre turbocharged 400 horsepower engine derived from the racing unit used in the WRC car. The transmission is a six-speed dual-clutch DSG unit with a manual option – or it can be shifted using paddles behind the steering wheel. The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with a Haldex 5 coupling which acts as a central differential lock, this system is so quick it is activated even before wheel slip occurs. The result is a hatchback which can hit 60 mph from a standstill in just 3.9 seconds.

The exterior of the Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept is fairly restrained. The flared wheel arches are intended to be a nod to the 1988 Rallye Golf G60 homologation model, and there is a new front bumper with larger intakes, and a new rear bumper with a larger diffuser. But overall Volkswagen have resisted the temptation to go overboard with the aerodynamic modifications.

The chassis of the Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept is the same as that used in the Production Golf R. This lowers the car by 20 mm compared to the standard Golf. The 19-inch wheels were especially developed for the concept.

The interior of the Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept features motorsport derived front seats with integrated head restraints and harness openings. There is a combination of Alcantara and leather upholstery throughout.  Carbon fiber accents have been added, as have a smattering of “R” badges.

Volkswagen haven’t said yet whether the Golf R 400 Concept is a preview of a production model, or if it was just a bit of fun for the Beijing show.