VW Puts the Grunt into Car Range

Volkswagen Germany plans to revamp its current car range with a slew of performance models. This is set to include Turbo diesel (TDi) versions of many of the range followed by RSi badged cars starting from next year, all designed to up the competitive ante on rivals BMW and Mercedes Benz

Underpinning the move is a new modular engine design first seen in this year's Golf 4 Motion, which has a V6 unit. V4, V6, V8 and V12 engines will be made available to the range.

This year sees the introduction of a 1.4 litre 16 valve Lupo Sport pushing out 100 bhp and a 2.5 litre V6 TDi Passat (150 bhp). Both come with VWs restyled alloys and exterior trim expected from sporty production models.

Next year will see the Bora RSi, which is set to make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. The Bora will likely have a 3 litre turbocharged engine giving out an expected 350 bhp and priced at a cost that is targeting the BMW M3 and Mercedes Benz C43. The Bora will also feature a six speed manual gearbox with 4 wheel drive as used an the Audi TT. This model paves the way for other cars in Wolfburg's range with the RSi badge, all restyled like the Bora RSi to give them a more aggressive stance.

Further down the line sees another revamped Lupo, the RSi with a twin turbo 2 litre V4 engine, pushing out 225 bhp - set to take on Rover's New Mini Cooper S (see last month). The V8 engine is planned for the Passat Coupe, due in 2001, set to take on the Mercedes M5 to give VW an executive size car with real performance underpinnings. The Passat Coupe will also be launched with an RSi model set to have a V8 engine pumping out a massive 400 bhp. The new Passat will be heavily restyled to underline the power under the bonnet.

Of course, the motor industry, especially in the States, is rife with rumours of a possible New Beetle RSi going into production, although there has been no solid announcement from VW. As seen in the April 99 Wheelspin, the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year showcased a concept for the New Beetle RSi that wetted customer appetites. With VW's determination to launch so many performance models next year expect to see the Beetle RSi given the official go ahead soon.