TEASED: Facelifted Volkswagen Golf R Nearly Ready For Unwrapping

In a new teaser video, Volkswagen has previewed the facelifted Golf R and Golf R Wagon, showcasing updated exterior styling for the performance duo. Described as ‘near-production’ models, the pair will receive the styling changes previewed by the updated Golf 8.5 and Golf GTI 8.5, both of which were revealed earlier this year. We can see a more aggressive front fascia, with prominent air dams and slimmer LED headlights. The camouflage wrap makes it difficult to spot additional changes.

Volkswagen has tweaked the bumper and taillight design at the rear, shaving a few years off the exterior and keeping both the hatch and wagon looking fresh. Sadly, despite enthusiast demand for high-performance wagons, the latter has never been offered in the United States, and there are no plans to bring it here this time around either.

Are We Getting More Power?

When it comes to performance, the German marque has remained tight-lipped regarding any potential power hikes or engine upgrades. The outgoing model uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 315 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque (280 lb-ft for the manual). The power-hungry may be left wanting more, but the figures don’t tell the whole story. A motivated driver can hit 60 mph in less than four seconds thanks to all-wheel drive and the rapid-shifting DSG transmission. Despite that, we wouldn’t be surprised if VW extracts more power from the EA888 motor.

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After all, the facelifted GTI received a healthy power bump (241 to 262 hp), so it’s only natural for the R to get more muscle. It’s possible, as the limited edition Golf R 333 offers 328 horses. Sadly, we don’t expect the manual transmission option to live on as it has been discontinued for the GTI. Inside, the R is expected to adopt the numerous updates applied to the rest of the Golf range, aimed at creating a more user-friendly experience. These upgrades include physical controls on the steering wheel, a 12.9-inch touchscreen with an AI assistant, and illuminated slider controls for the HVAC.

When Will The New Golf R Be Unveiled?

Volkswagen has not said when the Golf R will be unveiled, but this is the second teaser, so we expect a debut any minute now. In the teaser video, it appears the vehicles are on the Nürburgring. Could this be a clue? The Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race is taking place this week, and Volkswagen has already confirmed that the Golf GTI Clubsport will be revealed at the event. We could get a surprise two-for-one debut, but it seems unlikely that the R twins will steal the limelight of the hardcore GTI.

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Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport Confirmed As Most Powerful FWD Golf Ever, Debuts Next Week

The 50th anniversary Golf GTI will once again adopt the Clubsport moniker, befitting its title as the most powerful FWD Golf ever made.

With even more power, Volkswagen could push the Golf R into a serious segment. It may outclass the Civic Type R and GR Corolla in a straight line and may even nip on the heels of the five-cylinder RS3, available only in sedan form in the United States. Sadly, this may be the last-ever ICE-powered Golf R, as the performance sub-brand has expressed an intention to go all-electric, so VW might as well go out with a bang.