This is the Future: VW Unveils Ducati-Powered XL Sport

Oct. 02, 2014 4:00 AM ET byAdam Lynton /97 Comments

It's the VW Group's 200 millionth car, and comes powered by a superbike engine.

We're not sure what's more impressive: cramming a 197-hp V-twin engine from a Ducati superbike, which just so happens to be the most powerful two-pot in the world, into is ultra-efficient lightweight sports car concept, or the fact this one-off design study is the VW Group's 200 millionth car. Ditching the 47-hp turbo-diesel two-cylinder thatpowered the XL1, VW has unveiled the spectacular XL Sport, a super slippery, 890-kg carbon-fiber clad microcar that will rev to 11,000 rpm, sprint from 0-62 mph in 5.7 seconds, and hit a top speed of 168 mph.

With a drag coefficient of 0.258, VW says the XL is the most aerodynamic sports car on the planet. The slightly modified Ducati twin comes mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch that drives the 18-inch magnesium rear wheels, with the new vents at the back keeping things cool. The XL Sport borrows the XL1's carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, as well as its doors, windscreen and interior, but brakes, wheels and cooling are all new. VW also says the XL1 Sport is a driveable one-off and there's no reason why this couldn't enter limited production. If you want to know what the supercar future will look like. This is it.

This is the Future: VW Unveils Ducati-Powered XL Sport

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