VW has announced the South African-specific details of the next-generation Golf R, the most powerful hatchback in the company’s portfolio.
“More powerful, more dynamic, more efficient, more closely integrated, more digital; these are the characteristics of the new Golf R, the dynamic flagship of the eighth Golf generation,” said VW.
The Golf R will launch in the country in early 2023, following the late 2022 introduction of the high-performance Tiguan R, with pricing for both models to be confirmed closer to the date.
Both vehicles will come standard with a 3-year/120,000km warranty and 5-year/100,000km EasyDrive maintenance plan.
R Performance
The new Golf R is powered by the same 2.0-litre, turbo-petrol motor and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission found in its front-wheel-drive sibling, the GTI.
In the R, however, things have been kicked up a few notches thanks to a higher output, an R-Performance four-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, and an optional drift mode.
With 235kW and 400Nm on offer, the hot hatch jets to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and tops out at a limited 250km/h, while combined fuel consumption reads 7.8l/100km.
It then distributes power variably between not only the front and rear axles, but also between the rear wheels to ensure grip remains at optimal levels.
As a “world first”, the all-wheel-drive system is also networked with other running gear components such as the electronic differential locks and adaptive chassis control, which further assists in keeping handling neutral and grip consistent, said VW.
Premium hatch
As VW’s flagship hatchback, the Golf R is equipped with the manufacturer’s most premium features as standard.
This includes a panoramic sunroof, wireless charger, keyless entry and start, electric tailgate operation, adaptive chassis control with driver profile selection, high-beam assist, and model-specific Nappa leather seats.
The Discover Pro infotainment system is also included, comprising a 10.25-inch configurable driver’s display alongside a 10.25-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice control, and satellite navigation.
Outside, the new R gets 19-inch Estoril alloys from the factory, while the buyer has a choice between three exterior hues – Deep Black Pearl, Lapiz Blue Metallic, and Pure White.
As one would expect, the list of optional extras is equally extensive and future owners will be able to install LED Matrix headlights, a heads-up display, a Harman Kardon sound system, parking assist, blind-spot monitoring, travel assist with lane assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Those who are after the highest levels of performance and looks can also opt for an Akrapovic exhaust and the Black Performance Package, the latter of which brings drift mode, an increased top speed of 270 km/h, and black Estoril wheels.
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