Rumored: Volkswagen Has A Surprise for the 40th Anniversary of the Golf GTI

2016 marks the 40th anniversary of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, the model that started the hot hatch craze. To celebrate, Volkswagen has a big surprise in store.

Back in 2014, Volkswagen introduced the Golf R 400 concept. As the name suggests, the concept produced 400 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder. Paired with a six-speed DSG transmission and Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel drive, the R 400 could hit 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 179 mph. Since its debut, rumors and spy shots have shown that Volkswagen has an interest in bringing this concept into production.

Speaking with Australian outlet Drive, Volkswagen head of product communications Dominik Hoberg said "lets see," when asked about if the Golf R 400 will go on sale anytime soon.

"There might be a surprise coming. We have this year the 40th anniversary of the Golf GTI. Be surprised in May or June. Let's see what will happen."

As Drive notes, the two months suggest Volkswagen could premiere the R 400 at either the Wörthersee festival or Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Rumors from Germany say Volkswagen could swap the turbo 2.0L four-cylinder for an upgraded version of the turbocharged 2.5L five-cylinder found in the Audi RS3.

Pic Credit: Volkswagen