Volkswagen today announced the return of its motorsport-inspired R32 at the Chicago Auto Show, a potent hatch with much of the same running gear as the much more expensive Audi TT coupe.The R32's power comes from a 3.2L naturally aspirated 15-degree narrow angle V6 engine developing 250hp and 236ft. lbs. of torque. The standard 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system transfers at least 75 percent of available torque to the rear wheels, and when mated to VW’s DSG, the hot-hatch will reach 60mph from rest in approximately 6.4 seconds.

Inside, the R32 takes it cues from racing with aluminum-look foot pedals and deep front sports seats. Features such as automatic climate control, ten-speaker premium CD stereo system, rain sensing wipers, automatic dimming interior rear-view mirror, heatable front seats and heated washer nozzles, anti-theft alarm, cruise control and trip computer are included as standard. Twin chrome exhausts, 18-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights, a uniquely shaped front grille and R32 badging distinguish this car from lesser Golf models.

VW also announced that it will operate a production- based GTI Cup spec racing series beginning in 2008 in the US. The GTI Cup racer will be optimized for track performance and safety, but the racer retains the street version's 200hp 2.0LT four-cylinder engine that produces 207ft.-lbs. of torque. Completing the mechanical package is the automated manual DSG transmission, electro-mechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system, and advanced multi-link fully independent sports-tuned rear suspension.

Read our review of the Golf R32 by clicking here.

HOT NEW R32 WARMS UP THE WINDY CITY WITH ITS NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT

CHICAGO – Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced the return of its motorsports-inspired R32 at the Chicago Auto Show. First introduced in 2004 to an enthusiastic reception, the R32 delivers the ultimate in Volkswagen sports performance with dynamic handling and refined road manners.

The R32's power comes from a 3.2 L naturally aspirated 15-degree narrow angle V6 engine. With 250 horsepower and 236 ft. lbs. of torque, the R32 is all muscle. The standard 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system transfers at least 75 percent of available torque to the rear wheels. Volkswagen's acclaimed DSG® transmission allows for seamless gear changes and accelerates from 0-60 in approximately 6.4 seconds.

With a fully independent multi-link rear suspension that sits wider and lower than its GTI sibling, the R32 flaunts its authority both inside and out. Twin chrome exhausts, 18-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights, a uniquely shaped front grille and R32 badging distinguish this car from anything else on the road. A rear roof spoiler and deep front spoiler, coupled with body-colored bumpers, side bump strips, door handles and door mirrors, add to the streamlined, sporty look.

The R32 boasts a long list of safety features, including Electronic Stabilization Program that reacts to critical driving situations in milliseconds by controlling the speed of individual wheels; and a confidence-inspiring Anti-Lock Braking System that helps to prevent wheels from locking under heavy braking. Brake Assist boosts brake pressure in emergency braking situations and the state-of-the-art Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution automatically varies the amount of force applied to each of a vehicle's brakes based on road and driving conditions.

Inside, the R32 takes it cues from racing with aluminum-look foot pedals and deep front sports seats. Features such as automatic climate control (Climatronic™), ten-speaker premium CD stereo system, rain sensing wipers, automatic dimming interior rear-view mirror, heatable front seats and heated washer nozzles, anti-theft alarm, cruise control and trip computer are standard luxuries that complement this performance-driven champ.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.

VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES "GTI CUP" SERIES

Production-based GTI racing to begin in 2008

CHICAGO – Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced that it will operate a production- based GTI Cup spec racing series beginning in 2008, offering aspiring young racers an affordable entry into professional motorsports. The new series will be sanctioned by Sports Car Club of America.

"Volkswagen as an automotive manufacturer is represented around the globe, and we have a strong history in motorsports, including successful spec racing Cup programs in more than 10 countries," said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "The GTI Cup in America will underscore Volkswagen's competitive spirit and the inspiration we take from racing into the building of our vehicles."

While the GTI Cup racer will be optimized for track performance and safety, the heart of the GTI remains the street version's high-tech, 200-horsepower 2.0T four-cylinder engine that produces 207 ft.-lbs. of torque. Fitted with its automated manual DSG® transmission, electro-mechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system, and advanced multi-link fully independent sports-tuned rear suspension, the production vehicle is an extremely capable car for the track.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.