Volkswagen has unveiled the new Golf R and Golf R Variant, the latest top-of-the-range models in their lineup. These cars boast enhanced driving dynamics, exclusive features, and a powerful output of 245 kW (333 PS), an increase of 10 kW (14 PS) over their predecessors.
They can reach a top speed of 250 km/h, which can be further increased to 270 km/h with the optional R-Performance package, making them the fastest production models Volkswagen offers, alongside the Arteon R Shooting Brake. Pre-sales start on July 3 in Germany, with the Golf R priced at €53,795 and the Golf R Variant at €55,065. Additionally, there’s an exclusive all-black Golf R Black Edition available from €58,440.
These new R models are based on the eighth generation of the Golf, which underwent a significant update this year. Their dynamic design features a redesigned front with LED Plus headlights, an illuminated VW badge, and air curtains in the bumper, as well as new LED tail lights. Optional 19-inch “Warmenau” forged wheels, weighing just eight kilograms per rim, offer efficient brake cooling, especially beneficial on racetracks.
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Volkswagen has also revamped the infotainment system, which now includes the largest display (32.8 cm diagonal) offered by the brand. The new graphics and menu structure enhance operation, while the illuminated touch sliders for climate and volume control, along with the voice assistant IDA powered by AI-based software “ChatGPT,” provide improved user experience. The touch steering wheel’s responsiveness has also been optimized.
The Golf R models come standard with the enhanced Digital Cockpit Pro (26 cm display diagonal), featuring a central round rev counter with an R-specific design and the R-View with a horizontal rpm display.
Inside, the Golf R models are tailored ergonomically to the driver with exclusive “R” style refinements. The front sports seats have integrated head restraints, and optional black nappa leather interiors with carbon-look elements and blue applications are available, along with real carbon interior options.
Under the hood, the new R models are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering 245 kW (333 PS) to a 7-speed DSG and 4MOTION all-wheel drive with R-Performance Torque Vectoring. This setup improves stability and agility by distributing power individually to the rear wheels, optimizing cornering with a torque of 420 Nm. The optional R-Performance package not only increases top speed but also includes additional modes like Drift and Special, with the latter tailored for the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
The R-Performance package also features a GPS lap timer and G-meter, displayed in the Digital Cockpit Pro. Adaptive chassis control (DCC) is standard in Germany, continuously adjusting to road and driving conditions for optimal comfort and dynamics. The Golf R Variant offers flexibility with a maximum luggage compartment volume of 1,642 litres with the rear seats folded.
The exclusive Golf R Black Edition, available at launch, sports a sophisticated dark aesthetic with darker VW badges and R logos, black brake callipers, black 19-inch Estoril wheels, black tailpipe trims, and darkened IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. This model also includes the R-Performance package.
Volkswagen R has been a premium performance brand for over two decades, and the Golf R’s legacy dates back to the Golf R32 in 2002. With over 250,000 units sold across its five generations, the Golf R continues to excite Volkswagen fans worldwide.
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