It ceases to amaze us when Volkswagen shortchanges the US market on something cool. Every time VW has a cool new model or a much-needed redesign, the US doesn't seem to get it right away, if at all. Some excellent examples include refreshed versions of the Audi A3 and S3 with more power and the Virtual Cockpit, the stunning European-spec Passat which makes the US-spec seem like junk, and the Scirocco, which VW refuses to bring to the US. The Golf R has made its way to the US, but Europe just got an awesome update that the US probably won't get.

VW's update includes new headlights and a new front facia. All new Golf models will also benefit from LED taillights and a new infotainment system with a larger screen. No photos have been released of the cabin, but the car will also have a 12.5-inch display to replace the instrument cluster much like Audi's Virtual Cockpit display. The updates on the exterior and interior are also accompanied by a nice update under the hood. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder will now produce 305 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This is a nice increase over the current US-spec car which produces 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.

With the extra power, this Golf R will hit 60 MPH in just 4.6 seconds, which is just .2 seconds off the pace of the base Porsche 911. Hopefully, the US variant of the Golf R will get these updates in the future, but as we have seen before, VW likes to keep its US fans waiting.