Golf R

Make
Volkswagen
Segment
Hatchback

Yesterday the Volkswagen Golf R Variant was revealed, essentially a wagon version of the all-wheel-drive hot hatch. The German automaker didn't specifically mention whether or not the Variant would go on sale in the US, but the regular Golf R certainly is. Today official US pricing has been announced, and it's not exactly cheap. With a starting price of $36,595 (plus $820 for destination), the 2015 Golf R comes with a DSG dual-clutch gearbox and a host of high-tech features.

A 2.0-liter turbocharged four banger with 292 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque is standard, making it the most powerful Golf ever to be sold in the US. Compared to the previous generation, this one has an additional 36 hp and 37 lb-ft. Opt for the technology-rich Golf R with the DCC adaptive damping system and Nav, and you'll have to pony up $39,090 (that's without destination). A slightly cheaper six-speed manual transmission trim will supposedly arrive at a later date. All told, the new Golf R will make the sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. VW is currently taking pre-orders for the first 500 Golf R models, all of which will be top trim levels.