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