Volkswagen's venerable Golf has had quite a show season, with the introduction of the high-performance, all-wheel-drive R32 in Europe and the 20th Anniversary Edition GTI at the recent Chicago show. Next up, direct shift gearbox (DSG) for the R32. The 3.2-liter/238-horsepower V-6 can propel the mighty Golf 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, reaching a terminal velocity of 154 mph. However, the optional DSG automatic six-speed gearbox can achieve a 6.4-second 0-60 mph sprint. The DSG is both more fuel efficient and quicker than a conventional automatic by removing the torque converter as a ramp-up element. The system works like a traditional Tiptronic, complete with steering wheel paddle shift rockers. The technology will be introduced first on the R32 in summer 2003, then eventually spread through VW's sportiest models.
