VW's US Surprises: GTI Cup Spec Racing Series and the New R32

Volkswagen of America has recently announced thata reservation system in which through its R32 micro
it will operate a production-based GTI Cup specsite on the automaker's official web site. Interested
racing series beginning in 2008 to give chance toR32 customers are to complete a "purchase interest"
aspiring young racers who wants dreams of enteringform, generating what Volkswagen describes as an
the professional motorsports someday. The newR32 certificate. The first 850 people who would
series is going to be sanctioned by the Sports Clubpresent an R32 certificate plus deposit to a
of America.Volkswagen's dealer will be able to get one of the
Although the GTI Cup racer was optimized for trackfirst R32 vehicles.
performance and safety, the core or the life of theThe R32 just like other Volkswagen's masterpieces is
GTI remains to be the street version's high-tech, 200built using only the best auto parts and that includes
horsepower 2.0T four-cylinder engine that deliversVolkswagen motor mount which is popular for quality
207 ft-lbs of torque. It is also fitted with anand durability. The R32 is powered by a 3.2 liter V6
automated manual DSG® transmission,that produces 250 hp and 236 ft-lbs of torque. It is
electro-mechanical power rack-and-pinion steeringalso outfitted with a standard 4Motion all-wheel-drive.
system, and advanced multi-link fully independentThe automaker said it can accelerate from 0 to 60
sports-tuned rear suspension. In short the productionmph in just 6.4 seconds.
GTI is an extremely capable machine to take on anyOther features of the R32 include: twin chrome
racing challenge.exhausts, 18 inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, a
Meanwhile the German automaker has also confirmedunique front grille and R32 badging. Its standard
that its motorsports-inspired 250-horsepower R32 isfeatures are consist of a rear roof spoiler, deep front
returning to the US this year but also added thatspoiler and body-color bumpers, side bump strips,
quantity will be limited to only 5,000 units. The newdoor handles and door mirrors. It also boasts of
R32 is scheduled to hit dealerships in August.safety features like electronic stability control and
The R32 was first introduced in the US market in theantilock brakes. The interior features include
year 2004 and shortly after its debut a great numberaluminum-look pedals and sports seats, a 10-speaker
of units were sold out. For this year since the R32 ispremium CD stereo system and a trip computer.
offered in limited number only, Volkswagen will set up