Beijing show: VW teases madcap Golf concept

VOLKSWAGEN is set to premiere an extreme 295kW/450Nm version of the humble Golf hatchback at the Beijing motor show this week, featuring a supercar-matching zero to 100km/h sprint time of 3.9 seconds.

Called the Golf R 400, the China show special is strictly a concept vehicle at this stage. Volkswagen has revealed some sketches of the vehicle, which is said to be about 40mm wider than the current range-topping 221kW/380Nm Golf R (in European tune).

Power is sent to all four wheels via a fifth-generation Haldex-style all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed DSG. Expect the body to sport new diffusers and carbon trim, while behind the 19-inch wheels lie stronger brakes.

More information will emerge from Beijing this Sunday, including whether the Wolfsburg marque will consider putting the car into limited production.