The latest Golf R packs a 328hp punch and a new 12.9-inch display
- Volkswagen has introduced the new Golf R and Golf R Variant.
- Both models have revised styling and a new 12.9-inch infotainment system.
- The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder now produces 328 hp.
Volkswagen has unveiled the facelifted Golf R and Golf R Variant, following a preview earlier this month. They combine added performance with updated styling and new technology.
Like the Golf GTI, the range-topping Golf R has a new front end with streamlined headlights and an illuminated Volkswagen logo. They’re joined by a new bumper, which looks a tad more aggressive.
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Continuing rearward, there are matte chrome mirrors, sporty side skirts, and 18- or 19-inch wheels. The model also wears new taillights as well as a gloss black diffuser and a four-tailpipe exhaust system. Volkswagen said the sound of the latter has been “further developed to enhance the acoustic feedback and … motorsport feel of the car.”
Customers looking for a sportier appearance can opt for new 19-inch Warmenau forged alloy wheels, which only weigh 17.6 lbs (8 kg) each. That makes them around 20% lighter than traditional wheels and this helps to reduce unsprung mass. On top of that, Volkswagen said their open design helps to improve brake cooling.
Golf R Black Edition
Speaking of options, the Golf R can be equipped with an Akrapovič titanium exhaust, improved IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, and new 3D LED taillights with a dynamic flashing function. Customers can also get a Golf R Black Edition, which has tinted headlights, dark logos, and an assortment of black components including the wheels, brake calipers, and exhaust tips. The Black Edition also comes standard with the Performance package.
The upgrades continue inside as the Golf R has a new 12.9-inch infotainment system. Besides sporting a larger display, the system has a new menu structure and improved graphics.
Sticking with screens, drivers will find themselves looking at an “enhanced” 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. It now features G-meter and GPS lap timer displays for models outfitted with the Performance package.
Elsewhere, there are an assortment of other changes including improved climate controls and a sport steering wheel with “optimized” buttons. Customers will also find a new IDA voice assistant as well as access to ChatGPT.
Besides the new features, the Golf R comes equipped with sport seats and faux carbon fiber trim. Other highlights include blue accents, stainless steel pedals, and a 30-color ambient lighting system.
Power is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which has been upgraded to produce 328 hp (245 kW / 333 PS) and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque. That’s an increase of 13 hp (10 kW / 13 PS) and it gives the model the same output as the Golf R 333 Limited Edition.
The engine is connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring technology. This enables the models to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in as little as 4.6 seconds. When equipped with the Performance package, they can hit a top speed of up to 167 mph (270 km/h).
European sales start in June, while the US-spec Golf R will be introduced early next year. That’s a ways off, but Volkswagen of America told us we’ll get the Black Edition as well as a standard Performance package – sans the 12 mph (20 km/h) increase in top speed.