2023 Volkswagen Golf R Evaluate, Pricing, and Specs

For the reason that Golf R is principally supplied as one totally loaded mannequin, the largest determination to make when shopping for one is whether or not you need to commerce the usual six-speed handbook for the non-obligatory seven-speed dual-clutch computerized transmission. Selecting the latter will increase its base worth by simply $800. Nonetheless, we favor the stick shift.

Engine, Transmission, and Efficiency

Beneath the Golf R’s hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder that makes 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque—up from 288 hp and 280 pound-feet within the last-generation R. The engine pairs with both a six-speed handbook or seven-speed dual-clutch computerized transmission. The usual 4Motion all-wheel-drive system incorporates a rear differential that may actively distribute torque between the left and proper rear wheels for improved dealing with. The Golf R’s selectable drive modes (Consolation, Sport, Race, Particular, Drift, and Particular person) will be activated by urgent an “R” button on the steering wheel. We have sampled the hatch’s Drift mode, which proved entertaining on slick surfaces, nevertheless it will not substitute a rear-drive muscle automobile’s enjoyable issue. Each mannequin comes with a sport exhaust system, variable-ratio steering, and bigger entrance disc brakes than earlier than. It additionally rides on a set of 19-inch wheels shod with summer time efficiency tires. Throughout our first drive in Germany, the Golf R confirmed off the quickness and relentlessness of its sturdy engine, reactive dual-clutch computerized, and clever all-wheel-drive system. The model we drove was additionally geared up with the non-obligatory Efficiency bundle that provides two extra drive modes, together with an entertaining Drift mode that permits some tail-sliding antics. At our take a look at observe, our Golf R take a look at automobile with the seven-speed computerized transmission blasted to 60 mph in simply 3.9 seconds, beating the 2021 Honda Civic Type R by 0.9 second.

Gas Economic system and Actual-World MPG

The EPA has estimated probably the most environment friendly model of the Golf R is the one with the automated transmission, which earned rankings of 23 mpg metropolis and 30 mpg freeway. Going with the handbook transmission drops these numbers to twenty mpg metropolis and 28 mpg freeway, a worthy tradeoff in our opinion for the extra participating six-speed stick. We have not had an opportunity to run it on our 75-mph freeway fuel-economy route, which is a part of our extensive testing regimen, however once we can we’ll replace this story with particulars. For extra details about the Golf R’s gas financial system, go to the EPA’s website.

Inside, Consolation, and Cargo

The Golf R mimics the GTI’s new cabin design, which supplies a sportier aesthetic than the last-generation Golf. Each have a thick-rimmed steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls that function a ten.2-inch digital gauge cluster with configurable layouts. In contrast to the GTI, the Golf R is not out there with plaid seat inserts, nevertheless it does boast bolstered entrance seats wrapped in nappa leather-based. These unique buckets have blue and carbon-look accents within the facet sections in addition to a blue “R” brand within the backrest. The opposite inside options embrace ambient lighting with 30 colours, stainless-steel pedals, and extra carbon-look trim on the dashboard. The brand new Golf R additionally has spectacular cargo area and a cushty again seat.

Infotainment and Connectivity

As seen on the brand new GTI, the Golf R’s infotainment system will run by means of a ten.0-inch touchscreen located within the middle of the dashboard. Its secondary controls embrace touch-sensitive sliders versus bodily knobs and buttons. Together with the compulsory charging ports, the system ought to be out there with a Harman/Kardon premium stereo. We additionally count on fashionable content material resembling Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Security and Driver-Help Options

The brand new Golf R provides extra driver-assistance technology than its predecessor, together with blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise management, and lane-keeping help. For extra details about the Golf R’s crash-test outcomes, go to the Nationwide Freeway Site visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance coverage Institute for Freeway Security (IIHS) web sites. Key security options embrace:

• Customary forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking
• Customary lane-departure warning and lane-keeping help
• Customary adaptive cruise management with semi-autonomous driving mode

Guarantee and Upkeep Protection

Though VW’s powertrain guarantee is not tops amongst classmates, each its restricted guarantee and complimentary scheduled upkeep are among the many finest.

• Restricted guarantee covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain guarantee covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary upkeep is roofed for two years or 20,000 miles

More Features and Specs