2006 HPA Volkswagen Jetta RGT

We spent an afternoon testing the HPA Jetta RGT on rural Canadian roads along with some time at a private Vancouver-based airport. Normally, HPA's twin-turbo vehicles (most popular are its R32 packages) accelerate best when launched at 5,500 rpm, but because the SEMA show cars were just days away from returning home to Germany, VW insisted that the Jetta RGT be launched with no higher rpm than 3,000 revs--which absolutely killed the 0-60 mph time. Regardless, the Jetta RGT still covered 0-60 mph in 4.0-seconds with a quarter-mile time of 12.2-seconds at 118 mph. With full boost, 600 hp, and a 5,500-rpm launch the car would have likely run deep into the 11s. But alas, we respected VW's wish to not break the car during testing.

During braking we experienced amazing results. From 60 mph the Jetta RGT halted in just 105 feet (which beats most Ferrari, Lamborghini, and similar exotics) but did so atop a dusty, gravely runway surface that was our test track. Cleaner tarmac would have delivered improved braking--but we worked with what we had. Cut the steering wheel right and left during cornering and you'll get bruised ribs as your body bangs into the sides of the racing seats; the Jetta RGT changes directions faster than hummingbird on methamphetamines.

These days, strong looks are as important as strong performance, so the Jetta RGT was treated to a full external makeover. New front and rear bumpers were hand made and incorporate unique aluminum front scoops for the engine's twin intercoolers. On the sides the Jetta RGT got one-off side skirts and out back the trunk lid got a custom spoiler. Most interesting, however, are the one-off fenders that incorporate wheel opening flares that are 25 mm wider than stock. Without the flares, the big Michelin tires would never have fit. Slathered over the Jetta's sheetmetal is a Smoke Grey-hued paint job with silver ghost graphics.

Inside, the Jetta impresses as well. Throughout the cabin are hand sewn black leather and suede, real carbon fiber trim, and a Stack F1-style ST8600 digital display system. The Jetta's entire stock seating system was dumped in favor of four Recaro racing bucket seats swiped from a Euro-spec R32. That's right--rear seat passengers get their own racing bucket seats and even a set of grab handles to white-knuckle-grip while riding in the Jetta RGT on the road course. Scroth five-point racing seat belts insure passengers remain in their seats while the vehicle is in motion.

In short, the Jetta RGT is nothing short of stunning. However, despite huge crowd support at SEMA, word is that VW has no plans on building a production version anytime soon. Yet, no need to pout as you can have a similar Jetta (with the full 600 horsepower, but without the WRC brakes) if you write a check to HPA Motorsports. HPA has all of the engine, drivetrain, suspension, and braking aspects worked out and tested. As of this writing HPA is putting the finishing touches on its full body kit (fascias, skirts, and cool fender flares) for the Jetta. All you need to do is supply a car and a check that clears.