After months of rumors and speculation by numerous magazines around the globe, Volkswagen has released the first photos of what Volkswagen is calling the Concept R Prototype - a rear-wheel-drive, mid-engine roadster concept.
RWD? Mid-engine? In a Volkswagen? Yes folks, Dr. Pischetsrieder is obviously making his past history with BMW felt at VWAG and potentially setting the stage for an interesting future. The Concept R is a Golf V-sized two-seater powered by a 265hp 3.2l VR6 with power routed through a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) transmission to the *REAR* wheels.
The design, lead by former Audi designer Peter Schreyer pushes the Volkswagen brand in yet another new direction. With some hints of the Honda S2000 in its flanks, the Concept R has a low-to-the-ground look with 19" wheels pushed out to the corners. The new headlamp design and grill treatment are testing the waters publicly for the next generation B6 Passat expected to be unveiled sometime next year. The interior treatments are very aggressive with a beefy chrome laden steering wheel and numerous electronics scattered throughout the cockpit.
