Volkswagen prepares all new Jetta for Bonneville speed record attempt

Volkswagen of America announced that it has prepared a specially-tuned 2019 Volkswagen Jetta to attempt the Southern California Timing Association's BGC/G class record at the famed Bonneville Salt Flats in Wendover, Utah, over 11^th to 17^th August 2018. The Bonneville Jetta will be powered by a modified version of Volkswagen's EA888 2.0-litre turbocharged and direct injection four-cylinder engine.

Built by Bonneville preparation specialists THR Manufacturing, based in Ventura, California, the Jetta previews the powertrain that will be used in the forthcoming Jetta GLI performance model.

Volkswagen is hopeful that it can beat the existing class record of 336km/h, showcasing both the potential performance that the EA888 engine can achieve with modifications, and the all new Jetta's exceptionally aerodynamic shape, which yields a drag coefficient of just 0.27.

To run at high speed on the salt, the Bonneville Jetta has had many other changes from stock. The suspension has been lowered, special Salt Flat wheels and tires fitted, and a limited-slip differential added to aid traction. The interior has been stripped and outfitted with full safety equipment - such as a roll cage, racing seat and harness - and a fire suppression system.

The Bonneville Jetta's graphic treatment was the work of Volkswagen's Southern California Design Center. "This was a truly fun project to be involved in," said Reto Brun, Director, Volkswagen Design Center California.

"We wanted to highlight the sporty nature of the Jetta and give the car design graphics that would make it really stand out on the alien-like environment of the Bonneville Salt Flats. We wish the team luck as they attempt to make this the fastest Jetta - and the fastest production-based Volkswagen - ever seen!"