Golf R20 Is U.S-Bound for 2012

Lately products from the Volkswagen brand hasn't exactly been aimed at enthusiasts. In fact, new models are going for a broader section of the market than ever before.

The 2011 Jetta has ditched the previous car's more premium design and price tag for a middle-of-the-road approach. That is set to continue across the lineup with new models such as the NMS (New Mid-Size Sedan) Passat replacement .

Audi, on the other hand, has been consistently delivering the performance goods that appeal to enthusiasts. We'd like a little more of that over at the (cheaper) Volkswagen brand.

VW North America has confirmed that the R20, successor to the previous V-6 powered R32, will be making its way to our shores "at the request of enthusiasts."

The R20 is the hottest Golf available, powered by VW's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. In Europe, where the car is already on sale, the unit makes 270 horsepower and 258 pound feet of torque.

The R20 ditches the standard Golf's front-wheel drive power for a 4Motion all-wheel drive system by Haldex. Final numbers for the U.S-spec R20 will be forthcoming.

Look for it to appear next year with a debut at an upcoming show. It will be available in both two and five-door configurations and - get this - it will be mated only to a six-speed manual transmission. No doubt about it, this one is definitely for the enthusiasts! Stay tuned for more details.