VW R32 Highlights Lean Product Year

Volkswagen AG plans to begin selling its sizzling 250-hp Golf R32 in the U.S. by July 2007, Ward's learns.

The flagship hatchback, the fastest Golf ever — with a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) — is highly coveted by U.S. enthusiasts but currently is available only in Europe. VW last year said there were no plans to bring the R32 to the U.S.

Powered by a 24-valve 3.2L V-6 that generates peak torque of 236 lb.-ft. (320 Nm) at 3,000 rpm, the R32, which debuted at the 2005 Frankfurt auto show, will be available with VW's Direct-Shift Gearbox dual-clutch transmission.

The R32's U.S. arrival will highlight an otherwise lean product year. The only other new VW offering expected next year is a refreshed Touareg CUV.

In stark contrast to this year, when VW rolls out significant new products, such as the revived Rabbit (Golf) small car, next year's lull worries brand CEO Wolfgang Bernhard.

In an analyst briefing, Bernhard admitted to being “concerned about the product renewal hiatus in 2007,” says Merrill Lynch's Stephen Reitman. He “reiterated his confidence that 2008's products would perform strongly, but he would not elaborate” on what they were.

Central to these plans are VW's minivan, based on Chrysler Group's products.