A spy shot of the 2021 Volkswagen Golf R

Volkswagen announced a redesign of the Golf model overseas late last year. It is not yet known if the regular version will be available in the US, but it has been confirmed that enthusiast versions such as the Golf GTI and Golf R will be available in the US.

The Golf GTI has already been unveiled, and now spy shots of a Golf R prototype have emerged.

The new Golf is more of an update of its predecessor than a true redesign. As a result, the new Golf R will follow a similar path to its predecessor, which will be discontinued at the end of 2019.

The powertrain will feature a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbo engine whose peak output is expected to be in the neighborhood of 328 hp, significantly higher than the 292 hp of the previous generation model. Drive will likely be all-wheel drive, via a standard dual-clutch transmission.

The new Golf GTI has been given an increased horsepower rating. U.S. figures were not disclosed, but the 2.0-liter turbo four is expected to produce 242 hp, matching the output of the Golf GTE plug-in hybrid sold overseas; there may also be a Golf R 'Plus' model with around 400 hp.

But back to this Golf R. Thanks to the lack of camouflage, we can see the new front and rear body shapes. The Golf R's signature four-barrel exhaust pipes are also clearly visible.

All models in the eighth-generation Golf family feature a high-tech interior with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 8.25-inch infotainment screen, Internet connectivity and a semi-autonomous driving assistance system. The Golf R is expected to get some additional interior touches, including a model-specific infotainment menu, bucket seats up front, and an "R" badge.

The Golf R is expected to debut in the summer.

VW intends to significantly expand the model range under the R brand in the next few years. The T-Roc R compact crossover and the Touareg R plug-in hybrid are already available abroad, and R versions of the Tiguan and Alleyton will be available soon.