There is still space above the GTI: the R model also takes it up in the new Golf generation. With more power than before and improved all-wheel drive.
Around a year after the premiere of the new Golf, VW is now crowning the compact car series with the top model. The 235 kW / 320 PS R variant of the five-door and station wagon can now be ordered at prices from 48.000 euros.
Engine and speed
The 2,0-liter turbo gasoline engine familiar from its predecessor takes over the drive of the most powerful series-produced Golf to date. In its new expansion stage, the four-cylinder has 235 kW / 320 hp and a torque of 420 Nm, which is available between 2.100 and 5.350 tours. This corresponds to an increase of 20 HP and 20 Nm compared to the expired generation. The power is transmitted via a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. On paper, the performance is identical to its predecessor: the sprint from zero to 100 km / h takes 4,7 seconds, with a maximum of 250 km / h. The top speed can optionally be increased to 270 km / h.
The all-wheel drive is also more powerful than before, as it no longer distributes the drive force variably between the axles, but also between the rear wheels (torque vectoring). In extreme cases, up to 100 percent of the torque that can be transferred is directed to the wheel on the outside of the curve. As a result, the rear swings more readily around the curve, and the car appears more agile. In addition, VW has networked the all-wheel drive with the electronic differential lock and the adaptive chassis for the first time. The driver can select the desired characteristic by pressing the "R" button on the steering wheel. The well-known driving modes with more comfort-oriented and particularly sporty settings are standard. Those who order the optional "R-Performance" package can also use a drift mode and a profile specially adapted to the Nürburgring's Nordschleife. In addition, all parameters can be individually adjusted.
Optical characteristics
The top Golf also differs from the more civil versions in terms of the chassis configuration. The body has been lowered by 2 centimeters, and the springs and stabilizers are tighter. The camber on the front axle has been enlarged to enable higher cornering speeds. There is also a specially adapted progressive steering and an 18-inch brake system. A flap-controlled exhaust system from Akrapovic should provide the right sound.
Visually, the R-model is made up of, among other things, extra-large air inlets on the front, a blue crossbar on the radiator grille and a shiny black diffuser with four tailpipes. The equipment also includes sports seats, a navigation system, ambient light and 18-inch rims. The price surcharge compared to the previous model is around 4.000 euros.
