Select Page
  • This is the new Golf R, the most powerful version of Volkswagen’s latest Mk 8 Golf.
  • It has a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
  • The new Golf R will arrive in the U.S. near the end of 2021.

    The VW Golf R returns for the newest Mk 8 generation, and this hot hatch is looking hotter than ever. It also promises a bump in performance thanks to a more powerful engine, an upgraded all-wheel drive system, and a standard six-speed manual transmission.

    Like before, a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four is the sole engine choice, but this engine now produces 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque—notable increases of 27 hp and 30 lb-ft compared with the Mk 7 car. The U.S. version will now make the same power as the Europe-market car, so you won’t have to look across the pond with envy anymore.

    Volkswagen

    A six-speed manual transmission is standard—#SavetheManuals—but the optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic will likely be quicker. VW claims a top speed of 155 mph and a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.7 seconds for the DSG car.

    The new Golf R’s all-wheel drive system is more sophisticated than before thanks to a new torque-vectoring rear differential. This enables a Drift mode function that changes the system’s torque distribution and also partially deactivates the stability control for some tail-sliding action. The Golf R is lowered 0.8 inch compared with the standard Golf hatchback and comes standard with adaptive dampers. The front brakes are larger than before, with two-piston calipers.

    Looks-wise, the Golf R uses a familiar theme for the exterior and interior, with blue accents for the brake calipers, interior stitching, and other trim pieces. It’ll be offered in only three colors: the eye-catching Lapiz Blue Metallic you see here, plus black and white. It also has 19-inch wheels wrapped in 235-series summer tires, a rear spoiler, a rear diffuser, larger air intakes, and a body kit that make it look somewhat more aggressive than the GTI.

    Volkswagen

    All U.S.-bound Golf Rs will be offered in a single fully loaded trim level, with a sunroof, leather seats, and lots of other standard features. When it arrives near the end of 2021, buyers will only choose exterior color and transmission.

    We expect the new Golf R to rise somewhat in price to account for its increased performance and feature content, which should mean a starting price somewhere in the mid-$40,000 range.

    This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

    This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io

    Share Us