VW has revealed the new Golf R – the most potent version ever of the famous compact model. With a 2-litre turbocharged engine under the bonnet, the Golf R can pump out 235Kw and 420Nm, with VW claiming performance numbers of 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed limited to 250km/h. However, the Golf R can also be ordered with an optional R-Performance package, which enables the top speed to be increased to 270 km/h.

The new Golf R includes a new torque vectoring 4Motion all-wheel-drive system and a Vehicle Dynamics Manager.

The 4MOTION system with R-Performance Torque Vectoring distributes the engine’s output to the four wheels, and power is distributed not just between the front and rear axles, but also variably between the two rear wheels. The all-wheel drive is also networked via a Vehicle Dynamics Manager (VDM) with other running gear systems such the electronic differential locks (XDS) and adaptive chassis control.

The new Golf R’s setup was fine-tuned on the Nürburgring and when combined with the R-Performance package, the Golf R comes with a dedicated Nürburgring driving profile, known as ‘Special’. As part of this profile, all key drive parameters are geared towards the legendary racetrack. VW says the results are measurable, with the Golf R up to 19 seconds quicker per lap around the Nürburgring than its predecessor.

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, there 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 daytime running lights.

The five-door R has a sunroof as standard, and includes 18- or 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels, and matt chrome exterior mirror caps. Blue brake calipers peek through the wheels and there are chrome-plated twin tailpipes for the standard sport exhaust system.

Inside, there is a Discover Pro infotainment system with 10-inch touchscreen display and the Digital Cockpit configurable instrument panel. Top notch sport seats are up front that feature Nappa leather, and there is a multi-function leather sport steering wheel with DSG paddles, blue contrast stitching and an R button for direct selection of the various driving profiles.

Other standard equipment includes carbon-look dash panel, R-specific door trim, brushed stainless steel pedal caps and driver footrest, and 30-colour ambient lighting for the dash panel and doors.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (December 2020 / January 2021) 

21 December 2020