Volkswagen XL Sport Concept

Volkswagen has previewed a limited-run lightweight sports car, the XL Sport, based on the fuel-sipping XL1 concept. Borrowing Ducati's V-Twin two-cylinder engine from the 1199 Superleggera, which produces 197 horsepower and revs to 11,000 rpm, the XL Sport promises to reach 62 mph from a standstill in 5.7 seconds before topping out at an impressive 168 mph. Power is put to the rear axle via a step-down gear and a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Magnesium-alloy wheels are clad with 205/40 R18 rubber up front and 265/35 R18 tires on the back, while ceramic brakes help shave off speed in a hurry. VW claims the XL has better aerodynamics than any other sports car, with a drag coefficient of 0.258 and a 1.7-sq-m frontal area. A light curb weight of just 1,962 lbs also contributes to the performance figures, thanks to a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis. The suspension setup is inspired by dedicated race cars, with pullrod actuation for the front dampers and pushrods connected to the rear control arms. VW promises to build 250 examples of the XL Sport, though a release date and price tag have not been announced. The model will be formally unveiled this week in Paris. (leftlanenews)