After a preview at the beginning of 2024, Volkswagen has shown off its facelifted Golf R (Gen 8.5). It promises to be its most powerful yet, the turbocharged 2.0-litre four uprated from 236 to 245kW. Acceleration from 0-100 is trimmed by 0.1sec to 4.6sec.
Overseas there’s both a hatch and estate version. And for the facelift there’s also a Black Edition variant.
The EA888 turbopetrol is not only more potent but is also more responsive. This engine was previously the preserve of special edition Golf R variants.
Software tweaks mean gearshifts in Comfort drive mode now happen 100rpm later while exhaust pops and crackles occur earlier, from around 2500rpm.
Up front, there’s a new bumper design incorporating air curtains that improve aerodynamics, while an illuminated badge is a novel addition. Cabinside, the interior features a comprehensive digital overhaul. There’s a faster, sharper 12.9in infotainment touchscreen as standard, with upper and lower shortcut bars. Beneath that the temperature slider is now backlit, in response to customer demand. Haptic buttons on the wheel now require a firmer push for activation.
The Golf R also comes with an updated 10.2in digital instrument screen, featuring a motorsport-inspired rev counter.
Those opting for the Performance Package get a GPS-based lap timer, a g-force meter and a visualiser showing the torque split to each of the car’s four wheels.
A limited Black Edition trim has joined the Golf R range if you want that blacked-out look. It features the Performance Package, 19-inch Estoril alloys and a bigger roof spoiler. It also comes with a Nordschleife button that promises firmer settings but not buttoned-down race track levels of control.
European pricing for the facelifted Golf R indicates it will be much the same price or even less expensive than the model it replaces. Deliveries begin in Q3.
The next-generation (Gen IX) Golf will arrive in 2028 with electric powertrains only. Volkswagen has already said that the R division will be going all-electric by 2030. That means this will likely be the final ICE power Golf R.
Volkswagen as a brand has committed to being all electric by 2035, which is also when the EU is banning the sale of new ICE cars.
