Spy Shots: Volkswagen Golf R20 snapped on the 'Ring

Spy shooters have managed to snap a few pictures of Volkswagen's upcoming Golf R20 lapping the Nürburgring in Germany, in this case disguised as a mild-mannered 2.0 TDI.

The new hot hatchback will reportedly be available in both three- and five-door styles, and it will take the place of the now-departed R32. As the name suggests, the R20 will feature a four-cylinder engine displacing just 2.0 liters. Fortunately, that little engine looks to be direct-injected and pressurized by a big 'ol turbocharger, boosting output to an estimated 270 horsepower. Those ponies should be funneled to the front tires (not through all four contact patches as with the R32) through either a standard six-speed manual or VW's excellent DSG dual-clutch gearbox. Expect 0-60 mph times of around five seconds.

Besides the influx of power, VW's new R20 is expected to arrive equipped with a set of upsized brakes cribbed from the Audi A3. We're hoping that rumors of the new VeeDub R20's entrance into the States as a 2010 model come true, but in the meantime, it seems that the car will make its debut at the 24-hour Nürburgring race in May.

[Photos: KGP Photography]