It looks like Volkswagen’s dieselgate scandal has now further affected its future plans. Those who have been eagerly awaiting for the arrival of the Golf R 400 will be disappointed to know that the project has been canned.
At the 2014 Beijing Auto Show, Volkswagen rolled out the Golf R 400 concept, which packed a 2.0 litre TSI engine similar to the one found on the Mk7 GTI and R. Infused with some of the Polo WRC’s racing DNA, the powerplant churned out 400 PS and 450 Nm. Quite a recipe at the time.
Following its introduction, previous Volkswagen research and development chief Heinz-Jakob Neusser confirmed that the Golf R 400 will make it to production. Development test mules spotted testing soon after were strong indicators that the hot hatch is indeed on the way.
However, following the fallout of the diesel emissions scandal, Neusser vacated his position, resulting the in the manic R 400 project to be cancelled, according to company insiders. However, the R 400 team’s efforts won’t go to waste.
The same sources told Automotive News that Audi is still working on an ultrahigh-performance version of the EA888 engine that should have made it into the R 400, which will likely be offered in future Audi models. Whether said mill will hit the 400 PS mark, remains to be seen.
With the R 400 project cancelled, Volkswagen is re-evaluating its plans for the Golf R (currently the most powerful Golf you can buy). The eighth-generation model is expected to be launched after 2020, and could follow the current generation’s formula, with the added benefit of lightweight materials and slightly higher power output. So long R 400, a car that almost existed.
GALLERY: Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept
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I think is because of too many “kaput” cases lo
Says goodbye to Golf Retired 400…
Sad. One of the results of being dishonest.
Another junk.
Theyre slowing down on new models now cos they cant even unload the 3 year old cars stacking up in their depots. This scandal is like pouring salt on an already open wound.
what are you talking about? …pls read in today star business, VW is overtaking toyota as WORLD NO.1 as at to date.
I have driven lots of cars but i do find that the golf are quite excellent automobile…its soo balance btw being comfortable & a very great handling car. And its sort of unassuming looks(kinda of low profile & bland compared to other hatch that shout “look at me”..1 series, A class, Civic hatch, 308, A3 ..etc) and non-premium badge make it easy just to blend unassuming within the crowd without notice. Suitable for those who just want to keep a low profile but want a car that is comfortable & wt great handling.
ANyway, if you still need to show off …just get the A3, more or less the same VW car with a premium badge. ; )
but u need to pay slighty higher
But but but i dowan to low my head waiting for tow truck to come to my broken down car
that sucks man. as much as as i don’t like them for cheating, admittedly they’re the best at making hot hatch
Not best when get stranded along the roadside because of faulty gearbox
Haha!