VW and WRC are certainly no strangers, with the German automaker having participated in the event as far back as the 1980s, but more recent focus has been spent on the Dakar Rally - until now - well, not "now," but soon. VW plans to begin testing its new race car this year, but the automaker doesn't plan to actually compete until the 2013 season as it needs time to prepare for the intense challenges found in WRC.
"We can draw on an experienced and proven squad which has done an outstanding job in top caliber sport in the past few years. Even though the WRC is new territory for us and involves learning in many areas the team already meets some important prerequisites now as it brings an unwavering professional attitude and resolve to deliver absolute perfection to this commitment," said Kris Nissen, VW's motorsport head.
Exact details of the car are not yet ready as there is still development and fine tuning to take place over the next year and a half, but expect a competitive product with a ballpark of 300 horsepower that will field well given proper drivers. For now, enjoy the sexy widebody design and hope the performance matches its intimidating looks.
