Power, performance, and price – Potent hatchbacks taking on the new VW Golf R

The new VW Golf 8 R is going on sale at the end of April at a starting price of R912,800.

Not many hot hatches can compete with VW’s new beast, but there are a few that is up to the challenge.

From under the VW umbrella itself, there’s the Audi S3 Quattro, from BMW, there’s the M135i xDrive, and from Mercedes-AMG, there’s the A35 4Matic, all of which are four-wheel drive and boast comparable performance figures to the Golf.

Outside of the German brands, Honda’s Civic Type R, Hyundai’s i30 N, and Renault’s last-ever Megane RS300 are possible alternatives to the R, as well as the upcoming Toyota GR Corolla which arguably poses the biggest threat to the sporty VW’s market share.

Golf R specs

The new Golf R comes with a 2.0-litre, turbocharged motor pushing 235kW and 400Nm, in partnership with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with an electronic differential lock and adaptive chassis control.

The hatchback is capable of toppling 250km/h and if it hooks up just right, it sprints to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds.

In the cabin, prospective buyers can look forward to a panoramic sunroof, automatic LED lights with high-beam assist, a wireless charger, keyless entry and start, electric tailgate operation, and R-specific Nappa leather seats.

Furthermore, the Discover Pro infotainment system is installed as standard, bringing a 10.25-inch instrument cluster flanked by a 10.25-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice control, and satellite navigation.

In the tables below, we detail where the new VW Golf R ranks against its biggest rivals in South Africa.

Power

Performance

Price