Volkswagen Golf R: More Power and Digital Upgrades at a Lower Price
Volkswagen enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as the order books for the facelifted Volkswagen Golf R are now open. This hot hatch comes with several exciting updates, including more power, enhanced digital interfaces, and a lower price tag. Despite gaining extra power and a significant digital overhaul, the Golf R is now £990 cheaper than its predecessor, starting at £43,320.
Power and Performance Upgrades
The new Golf R is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that has been uprated from 316bhp to 329bhp. This power increase allows the hatch to accelerate from 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds, making it 0.1 seconds faster than the previous model. The heavier Golf R Estate completes the sprint in 4.8 seconds, showcasing its impressive performance capabilities.
In addition to the power boost, the reworked EA888 petrol engine provides sharper responses. The software controlling the powertrain has also been tweaked, resulting in improvements to the Comfort drive profile. Gearshifts now occur 100rpm later, and the engine produces distinct exhaust pops and crackles from around 2500rpm. These updates enhance the driving experience, delivering a more engaging and thrilling ride.
Digital Overhaul and Interior Upgrades
The interior of the Golf R has received a near-total digital overhaul, introducing a range of enhancements. The highlight is a new 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that comes as standard. This high-quality display is slicker and sharper, providing seamless access to various entertainment and connectivity features. The touchscreen is complemented by top and bottom shortcut bars, ensuring easy navigation and quick access to essential functions.
Another significant improvement is the backlit touch-sensitive temperature slider. This addresses a key customer criticism of the pre-facelift Mk8 Golf, enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, the Golf R features a special skin for its 10.2-inch digital instrument screen. This display includes a motorsport-inspired horizontal rev counter, adding a touch of sportiness to the interior.
Performance Package and Limited Black Edition Trim
Buyers of the Golf R can opt for the Performance package, which brings several exciting features. This package includes a GPS-based lap timer, a g-force meter, and a visualizer that shows the split of torque to each of the car’s four corners. These additions are sure to delight driving enthusiasts, providing valuable performance data and enhancing the overall driving experience.
Additionally, Volkswagen has introduced a limited Black Edition trim to the Golf R range. This special edition offers a blacked-out look, along with the Performance package, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a larger roof-mounted spoiler. Priced from £44,570, the Black Edition trim adds a touch of exclusivity and style to the Golf R lineup.
Future of the Golf R and Volkswagen’s Electric Transition
The facelifted Golf R could potentially be the last R-badged car with a combustion engine. Volkswagen has announced that the ninth-generation Golf, set to arrive in four years’ time, will feature electric powertrains exclusively. The R division has already pledged to go all-electric by 2030, aligning with the brand’s broader goal of becoming all-electric by 2035. This transition to electric vehicles reflects Volkswagen’s commitment to sustainability and aligns with the EU’s current end date for the sale of new internal combustion engine cars.
Conclusion
The facelifted Volkswagen Golf R offers more power, enhanced digital interfaces, and a lower price, making it an enticing option for performance car enthusiasts. The power increase and performance upgrades deliver an exhilarating driving experience, while the digital overhaul enhances the interior’s modernity and functionality. The introduction of the Performance package and limited Black Edition trim further adds to the Golf R’s appeal. As Volkswagen prepares for an electric future, the facelifted Golf R represents a significant milestone in the brand’s transition to sustainable mobility.
