Volkswagen Golf R full details revealed

A REFRESH more than a generational change, Volkswagen’s “new” Golf R 8.5 five-door hot hatch is here using the same tried and true formula as before this time ratcheted up a notch or two across dynamics, tech, comfort and equipment areas.

Further enhancing the rambunctious hot hatch is a 10kW power hike to 245kW complementing 420Nm of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.

The price rises $400 over the previous Golf R 8.0 with the 8.5 listing from $70,990 plus on-road costs pitting it against mixed competition such as Audi’s S3 from $78,000 + ORC, BMW’s M135 xDrive from $83,600 + ORC and no doubt Toyota’s Corolla GR AWD hatch from $67,990 + ORC.

Buyers could possibly even look at the cheaper Subaru WRX AWD if a sedan can fill the bill from $48,190 + ORC.

A number of front-wheel drive hot hatches might also get a look in, including Hyundai’s i30 N hatch from $50,000 + ORC and the Honda Civic Type R hatch from $74,100 d/a.

If the standard Golf R doesn’t float your boat, two option packs are available with performance and styling enhancements including the $1500 Black Edition and $6500 Warmenau Edition (later this year) with the standard R-Performance package providing a higher top speed in addition to Drift and Special motorsport modes, a larger roof spoiler, lap timer and G-meter.

The Warmenau variant scores a loud Akrapovic titanium exhaust, forged 19-inch alloys and carbon facia inlays among its list of goodies.

Volkswagen says it has optimised driving dynamics in the R 8.5, added “exclusive” standard equipment and a sharper design with an expanded range of R-specific equipment.

It is the most powerful Golf ever, but data suggests it is 0.2 seconds slower than its predecessor in the 0-100km/h sprint at a claimed 4.6 seconds. Its v-max is 270km/h with the standard R-Performance package.

Though not hugely different from the previous model, of most interest for prospective buyer will be the 1517kg new model’s tech’ specs that, as in the past start with its potent, raspy sounding engine and 4Motion all-wheel drive fed via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with performance torque vectoring.

Strident power emanates from a version of VW Group’s EA888-series engine (as used in numerous other VW products), in this instance tweaked with a petrol particle filter (PPF) that allows the use of 95RON fuel and an uptick in power.

The 4Motion system provides six drive modes including S+ for all-out track driving but also assists in helping the R 8.5 achieve a claimed 8.3litres per 100km combined fuel consumption.

Handling and ride is controlled by the R 8.5’s Vehicle Dynamics Manager that optimises the driving experience utilising adaptive chassis control (DCC), a technology that continuously reacts to the road surface and driving situation, while taking account of various elements including steering, braking and acceleration manoeuvres.

When cornering, the lateral dynamic functions of the DCC running gear including its variable ratio steering are coordinated and further optimised by the Vehicle Dynamics Manager resulting in always providing the highest level of driving comfort and optimum driving dynamics.

Importantly, the high-performance variant also includes a torque-vectoring rear axle, Sport stability control setting and special modes including Nürburgring (usable on road and track) and Drift (track only).

Interior updates focus on two new screens in the dash, a customisable Digital Cockpit Pro measuring 10.25 inches for the driver, and a 12.9-inch screen in the centre of the dash for infotainment and most other vehicle controls apart for steering wheel buttons and satellite wands.

The latest software interfaces are lifted from VW’s ID electric range including IDA voice assistant which accesses the AI-based software ChatGPT to answer questions. 

Newly developed illuminated touch sliders for the automatic climate control and volume control make an appearance on the new model. Volkswagen says the R 8.5’s in-car controls are “significantly improved thanks to new graphics and a fresh menu structure for the touch display”.

Additionally, the responsiveness of the touch steering wheel has been optimised and a range of trim colours is available with Nappa leather upholstery and mesh fascias to various surfaces.

On the outside, the new model has a familiar look highlighted this time with redesigned front LED Plus headlights an illuminated VW badge and air curtains in the bumper as well as the new LED tail-light clusters.

To reiterate, standard equipment on the Golf R includes adaptive chassis control, 4Motion all-wheel drive with R-Performance torque vectoring, variable ratio progressive steering, ‘R’ exterior and interior styling, IQ.Light matrix LED headlights, Dynamic Light Assist, heated and ventilated premium sports front seats with integrated head restraints and tri-zone climate control.

This is in addition to Nappa leather-appointed upholstery with blue decorative stitching, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with three position memory, leather multi-function ‘R’ steering wheel, gearshift paddles, Discover 12.9-inch infotainment system and Digital Cockpit Pro with 10.25-inch display.

On the (well-modulated) driver assistance technology front, Golf R features Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive which includes Travel Assist combining Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Assist and Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert, Front Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Monitoring, Park Assist Plus and Rear View Camera with 360-degree Area View.

2025 Volkswagen Golf pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.