The 10 Second Review
The Golf R retains everything we adore in the Golf GTI and spruces it up many notches! More horsepower, stomach churning grip and a lovely exhaust note. However it comes at a cost, affordability.
Pros
- Handling is great. Thank you “4motion”
- Plenty of drive modes
- Enjoyable drive with
potent accelaration
Cons
- Signs of Volkswagen cost-cutting
- GTI offers comparable quality
- Its expensive
The In-Depth Review
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Living inside the Golf R’s hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine generating 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This is a significant increase from the previous generation R, which had 288 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Transmissions offered with the vehicle is either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (The test car was a dual clutch automatic). The standard 4Motion all-wheel-drive system includes a rear differential that actively redistributes torque between the rear wheels for enhanced handling.
The Golf R offers a range of selectable driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Race, Special, Drift, and Individual. You can access these modes by pressing the “R” button on the steering wheel. The opportunity to test the Drift mode was unavailable, but I’m going to take an educated guess it isn’t your 79′ RWD American muscle car.
Every Golf R model comes equipped with a sport exhaust system, variable-ratio steering, and larger front disc brakes compared to its predecessor. It rides on 19-inch wheels fitted with high-performance summer tires.
Very impressed with its powerful engine, responsive dual-clutch automatic transmission, and intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The interior design of the Golf R closely mirrors that of the GTI, creating a sportier atmosphere compared to the previous-generation Golf. Both models feature a robust bolstered steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls that manage a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster with customizable layouts. Unlike the GTI, the Golf R doesn’t offer plaid seat inserts, but it does present well-bolstered front seats covered in nappa leather. The bolsters can help with all those stomach churning corners that the car can effortlessly take. The distinctive seats incorporate blue and carbon-fiber-like accents on the sides, along with a blue “R” emblem on the backrest. Additional interior highlights encompass ambient lighting with a selection of 30 colors, stainless-steel pedals, and more carbon-fiber-like trim on the dashboard. The new Golf R also boasts ample cargo space and a comfortable rear seat.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Golf R’s infotainment system is operated via a 10.0-inch touchscreen positioned at the center of the dashboard.
In addition to the essential charging ports, the system has touch-sensitive sliders instead of physical knobs and buttons. Some of the sliders are not backlit which is a serious task when adjusting the A/C Temperature at night. Additionally, it uses a very good premium Harman/Kardon stereo and has standard features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
While wireless phone-charging is available, it’s worth noting it is enclosed in a slim covered compartment and certain phones can get overheated.
“more serious, more powerful, and more everything than the GTI.“
