America is being deprived of new hardcore Volkswagen R models. The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon in 'R' form will be forbidden fruit here in the US, as will the upcoming Tiguan R. Instead, the next new R-badged coming to America will be the new 2021 Volkswagen Golf R, which will slot above the 2021 Golf GTI as the new eighth-generation Golf range-topper.

We've already seen prototypes of the Golf R being thrashed around the Nurburgring and undergoing grueling tests on snowy roads. This time, however, our spy photographers managed to get up close and personal with the new Golf R. A prototype was spotted parked up, giving us a much closer look at the new hardcore Golf. While previous prototypes were painted in white, this one is finished in blue.

This Golf R prototype is practically undisguised, with the exception of a partially-covered front bumper. Larger intakes make the Golf R look more aggressive than its standard sibling, while a prominent roof spoiler and quad exhaust system indicate we're looking at the new hardcore Golf. A close up of the unique wheels also gives us a clear look at the drilled discs and massive blue-painted calipers. Lowered suspension makes the prototype ride closer to the ground, giving the Golf R a sportier stance.

For the first time, our spy photographers managed to get a peek inside the high-tech cabin. Like the 2021 Golf GTI, we can see the new Golf R will be equipped with a 10.25-inch digital dashboard and a 10-inch infotainment screen.

Changes to the cabin compared to other models in the 2021 Golf lineup are minimal, however, apart from a new steering wheel, carbon trim, and body-hugging sports seats.

Under the hood, the 2021 Volkswagen Golf R will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that will send 328 horsepower to all four wheels according to leaked documents - that's a 37-hp increase over the current Golf R. Judging from the lack of camouflage, the new Golf R should break cover very soon. Reports claimed the new Golf R was slated to make its world debut at the 2020 Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. The event has since been canceled, but we're still expecting the new Golf R to be unveiled in the second half of 2020.