As much as I love the Golf GTI, it’s the R that many of us fellow Golf fans lust after. For a long time, it was Volkswagen’s fastest, most powerful, and sharpest-handling performance car, as well as the brand’s halo model. Sure, the Golf R has since been matched by other VW models in terms of horsepower and torque, particularly Volkswagen’s ID range of EVs, the Golf R is still highly sought after by enthusiasts. In that case, then today is a good day, as VW has just now unveiled the new Golf R and R Estate, the most powerful 8th-generation Golf variant yet.
Retaining a familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 engine, as well as a 7-speed DGS gearbox, and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, the new Volkswagen Golf R and R Estate feature a respectable output of 333PS, as well as 420Nm of torque. This makes it 13PS more powerful than the last-gen Golf R and R Estate. Alongside VW’s R-Performance torque vectoring system, it gives you top-notch agility, handling, and stability at higher speeds, all done by individually distributing power to both rear wheels. This should also help you optimise cornering speeds and grip.
The (New) Fastest Volkswagen Production Model
The top speed of the new Golf R and R Estate is 250km/h, but with the optional R-Performance package, you could additionally raise it to 270km/h. This aforementioned package further adds two extra track-focused drive modes that you can play around with… ‘Special’ is made for those who want the sharpest and most responsive experience possible, adapted to the conditions at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Meanwhile, ‘Drift’ allows the Golf R to let loose and burn rubber, if you’re looking to be exuberant. A GPS lap timer and G-meter are both included here, too.
Elsewhere, this package also adds a larger roof spoiler, providing you with improved aero and additional downforce. Aside from that, VW takes pride in their Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC) system, fitted as standard. This system analyses the road surface ahead and the driving situation, which could then tweak your Golf R’s steering, braking, and acceleration. On top of that, with this system working alongside the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, you can expect optimal driving comfort and sharp handling, allowing the Golf R to pull double-duty, on-road and on-track.
An All-New VW Golf R, Inside And Out
The new VW Golf R and R Estate is more about improved performance and sharper handling, as Volkswagen has made a lot of changes inside. The updated infotainment system now has better hardware and software, so it should be a marked improvement over the old unit. Here, you’ll also find IDA, Volkswagen’s ChatGPT-based digital voice assistant. For the Golf R, VW’s enhanced Digital Cockpit Pro is included as standard, which also comes with a unique sportier UI. In particular, it features a central round rev counter, with R-specific design and graphics.
Otherwise, the interior has been refreshed, and optionally, you can also get real carbon fibre upholstery. If you’re not sure about which model to get – the Golf R or R Estate – note that the Estate offers you far greater cargo capacity. Specifically, you can get upwards of 1,642 litres, with the rear seats folded. UK pricing and availability have yet to be announced, but starting in July and in Germany, the Golf R starts from €53,795. Meanwhile, the Golf R Estate starts from €55,065. Or, you could also opt for the exclusive Golf R Black Edition, starting from €58,440.
