Next Volkswagen GTI mule snapped

Volkswagen has apparently commenced road tests for the company's next-generation Golf GTI and Golf R. Our legion of crafty spy photographers managed to nab a few photos of a pair of test mules spotted out and about in public. From the looks of things, the upcoming Golf GTI will rely on a set of dual-exhaust pipes in the future while the more menacing Golf R will go for quad pipes.

Volkswagen hasn't released any final details on either vehicle, but from the whispers kicking around the web, it sounds like both hatches will need their new easy-breathing exhausts. In GTI trim, the Golf is expected to kick out around 230 horsepower – 30 more ponies than the current model. Step up the Golf R and you'll likely be treated to closer to 300 ponies.

Long live the hot hatch. Stay tuned for more details as they surface, but in the meantime, check out this high-res gallery of spy shots.