Volkswagen Golf R confirmed for America

Enthusiasts spoke, and Volkswagen listened. VW announced Thursday that the diminutive and powerful Golf R is coming to the United States in 2012.

VW said the Golf R will have a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with a significant increase in horsepower over the 200-hp GTI.

The car will also get Haldex 4Motion all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned electronic stability program, larger brake rotors and a fortified suspension for athletic driving.

The Golf R will come in two- or four-door configurations and will have a manual transmission.

Inside are unique steering wheel and trim plus an R-model shift knob and doorsills.

The exterior is marked by R front and rear fascia, 18-inch alloy wheels, an R body kit, badging and a center dual exhaust.

In other news, VW said it's partnering with fabled musical instrument maker Fender for top-shelf audio systems. The first use will be in the Jetta GLI model, followed by other Jettas, the 2012 to-be-named midsize sedan and the 2012 Beetle.

By Greg Migliore