For more than 20 years the Volkswagen 'R' badge has been attached to the brand's ultimate representations of power, performance and dynamic capability. The Golf R, in particular, has become synonymous with exceptional driving enjoyment. Over more than two decades these motorsport-inspired models have become a byword for practical yet visceral motoring - combining the everyday excellence of generations of Golf hatchbacks with the dynamic delight of carefully honed high-performance engineering.
Now, a new series of Golf R models is debuting in the UK with more power, more style and more driver-focused technology than ever before. With 333 PS on offer, today's Golf R, Golf R Estate and Golf R Black Edition represent the most potent road-going Golf models yet offered in the UK. At the heart of all three cars is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol (TSI) engine which, alongside its prodigious peak power, is also immensely tractable, with peak torque of 420 Nm available from just 2,100 rpm. Performance naturally aligns with that power uplift: 0-62 mph times drop to as little as 4.6 seconds (4.8 seconds for the Golf R Estate).
Sitting alongside the rest of the new Golf range, all based on the updated eighth-generation car, today's Golf R family boasts subtle yet important revisions to further hone both the cars' looks and their dynamic performance. Alongside LED matrix headlights, a Volkswagen badge that is illuminated for the first time, new LED tail light clusters and new optional 19-inch forged alloy wheels, the new models gain a latest-generation infotainment system with a visually free-standing display and a new menu structure.
A continuing trademark of the Golf R remains its use, as standard, of Volkswagen's 4MOTION all-wheel drive system that, here, features R-Performance torque vectoring. A rear final drive specifically developed by Volkswagen R distributes the drive variably between the front and rear axles and between the left and right rear wheels for optimum dynamic performance. Meanwhile, the optional Golf R Performance Pack includes, among other features, an increase in the top speed which, when specified, increases to 168 mph.
The new Golf R family comprises the Golf R hatch, Golf R Estate and, at launch (October 2024), the Golf R hatch Black Edition that features a range of themed styling changes. These include a 'Black' badge on the B pillar, darkened R logos, black exhaust pipe tips, black mirror caps, black strips on the radiator grille and headlights, and darkened headlight glass. Prices at launch (October 2024) begin at £43,895 (RRP OTR) for the five-door Golf R hatch and rise to £45,145 (RRP OTR) for the five-door Golf R hatch Black Edition and £45,295 (RRP OTR) for the Golf R Estate.
Distinctive design has always characterised R versions of each of the Golf generations, and today's updated eighth-generation is no exception. While the latest Golf R models naturally incorporate the careful design revisions and additions applied to the entire Golf family - notably newly designed LED matrix headlights, new LED tail light clusters and an illuminated Volkswagen badge at the front in addition to a horizontal LED strip in the radiator grille - the team at Volkswagen R have gone much further to once again add intense sporting style and unmistakable road presence to the pinnacle of the Golf range.
The R logo is neatly integrated into the new car's radiator grille while the blue application above the horizontal LED strip is another characteristic R feature. The latest generation of IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, which are fitted as standard, are equipped with a new high-performance LED main beam with about 15 per cent more range than their predecessors. Meanwhile, the new Golf R family gains a new and unique bumper design with aerodynamic elements picked out in high-gloss black. These include targeted air routing to cool the 333 PS car's brakes, along with a high-gloss black ventilation grille and a motorsport-style front splitter.
The silhouette
Viewed side-on, today's Golf R and Golf R Estate are distinguished by the tell-tale exterior mirror housings in matt chrome (black on the Black Edition) that also boast R logo projection as part of the exterior background lighting. There are R logos on the doors below the exterior mirrors, unique side sills, silver-anodised roof rails on the Golf R Estate and, perhaps most eye-catching, a range of unique wheel designs that include for the first time R-branded hub caps. A highlight is the optional, weight-saving, new 19-inch Warmenau forged wheel, offered in black or with a diamond-cut finish. Blue-painted brake calipers (black on the Golf R Black Edition) with an R logo are unmistakable, too.
The rear
The newly designed LED tail lights and IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights are standard equipment on all new Golf R models. The new 3D LED tail lights with dynamic flashing function are optionally available. Their 'welcome' and 'goodbye' effects can even be customised using the vehicle settings found in the infotainment system, with a choice of three distinct settings.
As with the front, the rear of these cars features a unique R design bumper, a diffuser in high-gloss black and the four-pipe tailpipes of the exhaust system (twin tailpipes left and right). The Golf R hatchback can also be ordered with the optional Akrapovi R-Performance titanium exhaust system. Models with the Performance pack, meanwhile, can be more easily recognised at the rear thanks to a larger roof spoiler which actively aids downforce.
Interior design: next-generation infotainment takes centre stage
Dominating the changes inside the new Golf R family is the arrival of an entirely new generation of infotainment system, with bespoke R graphics. Both the hardware and software here are completely new. The new set-up is based on the fourth-generation modular infotainment system (MIB4). Operation has been significantly improved and simplified compared with previous versions, thanks to new and improved graphics and a new menu structure for the touch display.
Designed to be highly intuitive, the infotainment system is available in one generously-sized 16:9 display format: the Discover system has a display diagonal of 12.9 inches. The new tablet-style MIB4 displays are designed to be visually free-standing and, as a key part of this, the touch sliders for the temperature and volume control have been redeveloped, becoming significantly more ergonomic to use. They are also illuminated, which allows for easy adjustments at night. A windscreen head-up display will again be optionally available for the new R cars.
Astonishing, accessible power
Volkswagen's fabled EA888 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol (TSI) engine has been a mainstay of the brand's models for well over a decade and the latest iteration, the LK3 evo4, represents the most potent version yet created. The 1,984 cc unit in the new Golf R models is capable of producing 333 PS and up to 420 Nm of torque - with the power peak arriving between 5,600 and 6,500 rpm. Tuned by the team at Volkswagen R to be particularly tractable, the engine develops its maximum torque of 420 Nm in a hugely accessible rev range that extends from 2,100 to 5,500 rpm.
The direct-injection engine is characterised by typically innovative details such as the integration of water-cooled exhaust gas routing to the turbocharger in the cylinder head. Thanks to a fully electronic coolant regulator unit, the TSI features very efficient thermal management with a short warm-up phase. The resultant reduction in friction losses contributes to reduced fuel consumption. The engine is also characterised by variable valve timing with double camshaft control. In addition, the valve lift can be switched in two stages on the exhaust side allowing for optimum control of gas exchange in relation to performance, consumption and exhaust emissions.
Bespoke features for the Golf R range include a higher speed engine start facility, to boost sound at start-up. If the driver presses the engine start button (Engine/Start) without brake operation for at least 1.5 seconds and then starts the engine by pressing the brake pedal, the starting speed briefly automatically increases to 2,500 rpm with a resultant acoustic statement in the form of a deep burbling sound.
The new models' exhaust note has been further developed, too, to enhance acoustic feedback and underscore the sporty feel of these cars. 'Popping' can be heard from just 2,500 rpm, evoking a typical motorsport ambience outside while, inside, a sound actuator ensures the engine has a particularly throaty resonance. The ultimate in aural enjoyment arrives via the now even richer-sounding R-Performance titanium exhaust system from Akrapovi - an option across the new Golf R range.
State-of-the-art running gear
The new models bristle with advanced suspension and steering technology: MacPherson front axle, four-link rear axle, progressive steering, 18-inch brakes - all underpinned by the security and capability of Volkswagen's 4MOTION all-wheel drive.
The basic layout of the sports running gear, which is lowered by 20 mm compared with the standard cars, consists of a MacPherson front axle, a four-link rear axle and a high-stability 18-inch brake system. Progressive steering is fitted as standard and operates with a progressive gear ratio to significantly reduce the steering effort required when manoeuvring and parking. Conversely, on winding country roads for instance, drivers will notice a greater dynamic response thanks to the more direct set-up.
4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard
All versions of the Golf R feature a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with R-Performance torque vectoring. A rear final drive developed by Volkswagen R distributes the drive variably between the front and rear axles and between the left and right rear wheels. The differential from the 4MOTION drive system familiar from other Volkswagen MQB (modular transverse matrix) models transfers the power via a multi-plate clutch to the left and the right-hand rear wheels with a 50:50 ratio. In addition, the Golf R's 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with R-Performance torque vectoring distributes the torque variably between both rear wheels, meaning that up to 100 per cent of the available torque can be directed to the wheel on the outside of the bend. This reduces the cornering radius and reduces understeer, leading to noticeably more agile vehicle handling. The degree of power distribution is determined by the steering angle, accelerator pedal position, lateral acceleration, yaw rate and speed. Moreover, the driver can use the driving profiles to influence operation of the stabilising vehicle dynamics systems and the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system.
Intelligent vehicle dynamics manager
An innovative vehicle dynamics manager not only closely integrates the electronic differential locks (XDS) and lateral dynamics components of the controlled shock absorbers when the optional adaptive chassis control system (DCC) is specified, but also - for the first time - the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with R-Performance torque vectoring.
Electromechanically adjustable running gear significantly enhance the balance between maximum dynamics and comfort. The vehicle dynamics manager coordinates the electromechanical functions of the 4MOTION system, electronic differential lock and lateral dynamics components of the optional DCC shock absorbers. Wheel-specific damping adjustment ensures particularly agile and precise handling. The vehicle dynamics manager also enables perfect clutch control for the selective wheel torque control, to further optimise agility and stability. Alongside this, targeted braking intervention on the vehicle's side that is inside on a bend further reduces understeer towards the limit of dynamic capability. Handling becomes slightly more biased towards the rear, instead of understeering.
The infotainment display in detail
The new MIB4 systems found in the latest generation of Golf, including the Golf R range, are highly intuitive to operate. The standalone display, angled slightly towards the driver for easy operation, features a newly developed menu structure. The Discover system's 12.9-inch screen is divided into two touch bars at the top and bottom, with an easy-to-access home screen in the middle. The driver can assign favourite direct access functions to large areas of the top bar and home screen while, for the first time, the individually configured top bar and static bottom bar remain continuously displayed when the driver opens various functions in the form of apps on the home screen. This considerably simplifies operation of the system, while the new MIB4 set-up also responds swiftly to commands.
Infotainment menu structure:
- The top bar: The top bar has a new direct access button on the far left that lets the driver open the main menu, providing an overview of all apps with just one click. To the right of this is a stylised vehicle button for the new car control centre; it offers direct access to the most important vehicle functions. The main menu and car control centre are always accessible without having to close the active app. To the right of the car control centre there are further direct access functions that can be assigned individually - for example, with buttons for the driving modes, parking functions, assist systems and the media library
- The home screen: The large home screen contains the content from the most important apps on freely assignable graphic tiles of different sizes. Classic apps such as the navigation system, radio and sound settings, as well as new functions such as the visualised instructions from the IDA voice assistant, are displayed in these tiles
- The bottom bar: The bottom bar contains permanent direct access to the air conditioning system and optional seat air conditioning as well as the home button, which the driver can use to return to the central home screen at any time. The bottom bar's controls are now illuminated, further simplifying their use
Enhanced and bespoke Digital Cockpit Pro
The new Golf R models are equipped with the enhanced 10.2-inch Digital Cockpit Pro as standard. The driver uses buttons on the multi-function steering wheel to set up different basic graphic configurations (information profiles) while in the Golf R the system offers an enhanced Sport skin, featuring a central round rev counter with an R-specific design including the R logo. A three-dimensional layout - the R view - with numeric fields is also available. Unique to the R cars, there is also a horizontal rev counter at the top edge of the display. The scale for this flat, horizontal display ranges from 0 to 8 (equivalent to 0 to 8,000 rpm). In models with the Performance pack, the display also offers gearshift recommendations when manual DSG mode is activated.
In manual DSG mode, the driver either uses the shift-by-wire buttons on the centre console or the paddles on the steering wheel to perform manual gear shifts. The shift recommendations are especially useful when the Golf R is used for a track day, as automatic upshifts are intentionally deactivated in manual mode when the optionally available Special and Drift driving profiles are used.
Further new functions of the Digital Cockpit Pro, in conjunction with the optional Performance pack, include a GPS lap timer and a G-meter to display G forces being experienced by the car. It's also possible to view charge pressure, gearbox temperature, torque, power, and the torque distribution of the 4MOTION system. The torque distribution is shown by means of new Golf R graphics.
Bespoke driving profiles
The familiar driving profiles of Comfort, Sport, Race and Individual, previously available in the Golf R, are now joined by a new Eco mode which makes leisurely journeys even more efficient. The Comfort profile has been modified for a more sporty feel, too, with the shift characteristics of the seven-speed DSG changed to ensure that upshifting now takes place around 100 rpm later.
In the Sport profile, the start/stop system and the coasting function are deactivated, while the selective wheel torque control and entire drive system are configured to make them extremely sporty. In the Race profile, features such as the optional DCC adaptive chassis control, selective wheel torque control, progressive steering and all-wheel drive are adjusted to a significantly sportier setting. As ever, drivers can set a wide range of parameters themselves in Individual mode.
When the Race driving profile is chosen - most easily activated via the blue R button in the left bank of steering wheel-mounted buttons, in the infotainment system or by voice control - a range of settings are instantly revised to dial up responsiveness and sporting feel. The turbocharger is preconditioned to be kept at a higher turbine speed even when driving under partial load to ensure spontaneous power delivery as soon as the vehicle accelerates again. The throttle valve is also opened in overrun phases: this means that the driver can clearly feel a fast build-up of engine torque when lifting off the accelerator before a bend and then accelerating after the apex of the corner.
For those who specify the optional Performance pack, the driving profiles expand yet further with the addition of bespoke Special and Drift configurations. The Special profile has been specifically configured for the Nürburgring Nordschleife and configures a softer set-up for the DCC running gear compared with Race mode, to make sure the Golf R can maintain maximum contact with the road on the undulating Nordschleife track. In this mode the adaptive chassis control is also revised; a special tune optimised for lateral dynamics is also applied via the vehicle dynamics manager and selective wheel torque control. The driver can also manually deactivate the electronic stability control (ESC). Meanwhile downshifts in automatic DSG mode - performed depending on the brake pressure - perfectly match every deceleration ahead of corners. The current gear is maintained depending on the lateral acceleration and the speed at which the accelerator is released. In manual DSG mode, the usual forced upshifts and kickdown are also omitted, thereby offering the driver maximum control over the individual gears. Engine load changes are also adjusted in order to optimise steering response and lateral dynamics.
In the Drift performance profile, the parameters for the ESC control (change to ESC Sport) and the distribution of power via the all-wheel drive system enable the Golf R to drift when driven on private tracks. To make sure the profile is only selected on private roads, the infotainment system always displays a confirmation prompt before it is activated.
Integration of ChatGPT
Volkswagen is enhancing its in-car technology by integrating ChatGPT into its IDA voice assistant. This advanced AI technology is available in the new Golf R models as well as the all-electric ID. range, the latest Tiguan and the new Passat.
Activation is straightforward. Users simply say 'hello IDA' or press the button on the steering wheel. No new accounts, additional apps or separate AI activation is required.
The enhanced IDA voice assistant can control various vehicle functions such as infotainment, navigation and air conditioning. It can also answer a wide range of general knowledge questions thanks to its continuously learning AI database, and it maintains context over longer conversations, resulting in coherent and personalised interactions.
Data privacy is completely secure because ChatGPT has no access to vehicle data, and all queries and responses are deleted immediately to ensure high-level data protection. All data are handled anonymously to maintain user security.
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