This humble-looking Volkswagen Jetta is ready to challenge some speed records.
Volkswagen announced that they’re taking a special car to Bonneville to challenge a speed record from August 11-17. It’s not some crazy one-off or bespoke car they’re using however. Instead, they’re using a humble Jetta. Yes, this Volkswagen Jetta LSR, built by California-based Bonneville specialists THR Manufacturing, will attempt to seize the class speed record of 208.472 mph.
The company is using the opportunity for the speed record to foreshadow the upcoming Jetta GLI. This specially-tuned car still has the Jetta’s slippery drag coefficient of just 0.27. It also still houses a 2.0-liter turbocharged EA888 four-cylinder engine, albeit a modified version. By taking the G/BGC class record – G/BGC meaning a modified gasoline car – Volkswagen hopes to show off the performance potential of their new platform. The record attempt will take place at the famous Bonneville Salt Flats just outside Wendover, Utah.
This isn’t your average, stock Jetta
Apart from the graphics work completed by Volkswagen’s Southern California Design Center, the Jetta LSR has some modifications to run on salt. To handle high speeds, THR lowered the suspension, fitted special wheels and tires, and added a limited-slip differential for traction. On top of that, they’ve also stripped out the interior and fitted a racing seat and roll cage. Just in case something goes awry, there’s a fire suppression system. The car also has a pair of parachutes to help stop it once it hits those high speeds.
Prior to the run, Volkswagen North America CEO Hinrich Woebcken said, “We are delighted with the reception for the 2019 Jetta in North America. With the attempt on the Bonneville speed record, we want to underline the Jetta’s sporty credentials and get customers excited for the more performance-oriented Jetta GLI on the way.”
Volkswagen did not disclose exact power figures for the Jetta LSR. We’ll keep an eye on the Jetta at Bonneville Speed Week in August to see how it performs. Stay tuned to TFLcar.com for more updates! Subscribe to TFLcar and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews.
