The next-generation Volkswagen Golf R was recently spotted doing some test runs in the snow. While some thought there was no camouflage in sight on this prototype, a good look at the front bumper and the cut-out for exhaust pipes and diffusor at the rear reveals a bit of plastic at the front and a clever paint job on both ends. Even the door sills could be false. Only time will tell.

Specific details in the prototype present clear markings of the Golf R’s DNA: This prototype of the range-topping performance model of the 2020 VW Golf Mk8 sports all the exterior elements typical to the Golf R. Lowered suspension and oversized wheels with low-profile tires, sportier bumpers with big air intakes at the front and car foam polishing pad a massive diffuser at the rear flanked by quad round exhausts, bigger roof spoiler, side skirts and blue-painted brake calipers on massive brake discs (perforated at the front).

Mated to a DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard 4Motion AWD system, the VW Golf R should be even quicker than its predecessor. Kitted with the Performance Pack, the current Golf R does 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds and maxes out at 167 mph.

The all-new VW Golf R is expected to debut in mid-2020, possibly at July’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.