Volkswagen Golf R finally headed to SA

The most powerful production version of the Volkswagen Golf ever made available to the public will be launched in South Africa early in 2023.

Since its initial launch in 2007, 6000 units of the Golf R have found homes in South Africa and the latest iteration reign’s supreme as the model range’s most powerful hatch to date.

The flagship eighth generation Golf promises to be more powerful, more dynamic, more efficient, more closely integrated and more digital.

Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder EA 888 engine that produces 235kW and 400Nm and paired with a seven-speed DSG gearbox it allows the Golf R to accelerate to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250km/h. Volkswagen claim that it will use just 7,8 litres per 100km.

A new all-wheel drive system and high tech running gear merge to create a host of innovations whilst offering maximum agility and driving pleasure. The 4Motion system with R-Performance Torque Vectoring handles the transfer of power to the road via all four wheels. A new final drive distributes power between the front and rear axles and also variably between the rear wheels. This allows for significantly increased agility, especially when cornering.

The all-wheel drive is also linked via a Vehicle Dynamics Manager to other running gear systems such as the electronic differential locks and adaptive chassis control, resulting in optimum traction and neutral handling.

The Golf R is equipped with a high level of standard equipment including mobile inductive charging, a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry with safelock, an electric tailgate, Discover pro system with satellite navigation, wireless App Connect and Voice Control, 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels, Adaptive Chassis Control including driving profile selection, Light and Vision Package and Nappa leather seats.

A wide variety of optional equipment is also available to further personalise this vehicle including IQ.Light LED Matrix headlights, Akrapovic exhaust, head up-display, Harman Kardon sound system, parallel park assist, rear assist with a rear view camera, blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert and lane assist, travel assist, adaptive cruise control, IQ.Drive adaptive cruise control with front assist, autonomous emergency braking system as well as the Black Performance Package which includes drift mode, an increased top speed to 270km/h and black 19-inch Estroril alloy wheels.

Pricing for the Golf R will be confirmed closer to the early 2023 launch date.