Volkswagen Golf R on the horizon
The Volkswagen Golf R is headed our way, unfortunately we will have to wait until early next year for it to officially arrive on showroom floors. In the meantime, here are 5 things that you need to know about the hot new Golf R.
The most powerful Golf R
This R badged Golf will develop 235 kW and 400Nm from its EA888 turbocharged four-cylinder motor. While a 6-speed manual transmission is offered in other markets, locally the 2.0-litre motor will be paired to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission, with power delivered to the wheels via an updated 4Motion torque vectoring all-wheel drive system. Customers can expect performance numbers like 100km/h in 4,7 seconds, and a top speed of 250km/h
It has drift mode
The system boasts selective wheel torque control on the rear axle which means that the opposing rear corner of the car prioritises extra torque while cornering, which should make the ‘8 R highly competitive around a track. If track times are not what you are after, the Golf-first Drift mode is now a standardised setting to choose from, which gives the car the ability to flick the back end out and rapidly abridge mileage from the rear tyres.
It’s all digital
The VW Golf Mk 8 digitised many of the displays and controls in this globally best-selling product line. This has enabled the graphics to be tailored to the new Volkswagen Golf R in the standard Discover Pro infotainment system and the Digital Cockpit configurable instrument panel. The 10-inch Discover Pro touchscreen display greets the driver with a new R welcome screen as soon as the vehicle is opened with the vehicle key.
Show to match the go
The exterior design of the new Golf R includes a new front bumper featuring a motorsport-style splitter and R-specific air intake grilles, with high-gloss black elements. At the top of the radiator grille, the Golf features a blue crossbar which lights up as an LED strip as soon as the engine starts and stretches all the way into the fenders to act as the daytime running lights.
When will it arrive?
Volkswagen South Africa confirmed that the anticipated fifth generation Golf R, will only be available from early 2023 however the Tiguan R, which makes use of similar tech and powertrains as the Golf will arrive in October with deliveries expected in November.
