The Volkswagen Golf R is no ordinary hatchback—it delivers true performance wrapped in a practical, everyday subcompact package. Here are 14 standout features of the model that tops the Golf line.
1. Turbocharged Power—328 Horsepower
The Golf R features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering 328 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That is more than many previous hot hatch rivals and gives it a serious performance edge. Keep in mind that the Golf R requires premium gasoline.
2. Standard AWD (4Motion)
Every unit comes with Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive, giving it outstanding traction and confidence, whether on wet roads or winding curves. Up to 100 percent of the power routes to one wheel, as needed. Spirited driving never felt so good!
3. Quick and Refined DSG
The seven-speed dual-clutch DSG is the only option in the U.S., offering lightning-fast shifts and seamless performance. As much as we prefer a manual, the DSG is simply faster.
4. Adaptive Suspension (DCC)
The DCC adaptive damping system lets you switch ride feel between comfort and sport, balancing daily comfort with track-day capabilities. The Golf R is an excellent commuter car that doubles as a performance maven.
5. Impressive Cornering & Braking
A tight chassis, sharp steering, and torque-vectoring rear differential make the Golf R carve through corners with remarkable confidence. Strong brakes reinforce its composure. The best of German engineering is present here.
6. Drift Mode for Fun
Not just for show—Drift Mode shifts torque to the rear wheels to enable controlled slides. It is a rare feature in this class and adds another layer of excitement. Keep those tires properly inflated to enjoy the full experience.
7. Rear-Axle Torque Vectoring
The rear differential can route all available torque to a single wheel, sharpening agility and improving cornering feel on twisty roads. Twisty roads suddenly become your favorite playground.
8. Subtle Sport Styling
Quad exhausts, R-specific bumpers, unique wheels, and subtle badging all hint at performance without going over the top. We have seen overwrought designs (here’s looking at you Subaru WRX STI). The Golf R achieves it all without the garish dressing.
9. Premium Interior Materials
Nappa leather seats, heated and ventilated front chairs, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof give this hatchback an upscale cabin feel. The driver’s seat finds the right blend of support and comfort to deliver a solid driving experience.
10. Digital Cockpit Pro
The 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro allows you to tailor your instrument cluster, with features such as lap timing, a G-meter, and boost pressure displays. Keep track of your performance output with ease.
11. Large Infotainment Screen
A 12.9-inch touchscreen is standard, with navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging included. The voice-controlled interface enables you to keep your hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road as you call up your favorite features.
12. Harman Kardon Premium Audio
The optional Harman Kardon sound system envelopes the cabin with crisp, rich audio that enhances any drive. Even the standard audio package delivers a refined musical experience.
13. Practical Hatchback Layout
With 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 34.5 cubic feet with them folded, the Golf R delivers useful utility alongside its performance. There is no need for a pickup truck or an SUV to handle most store runs.
14. Everyday Livability
The Golf R is comfortable for commuting, quiet at highway speeds, easy to park, and efficient at around 25 mpg combined. Few models deliver this combination.
Golf R Competitive Set
Among its closest rivals, the Volkswagen Golf R presents a balanced mix of performance and refinement.
Against the Honda Civic Type R, it distinguishes itself with standard all-wheel drive and a quick-shifting DSG, while the Civic emphasizes driver purity with a manual-only setup.
Toyota’s GR Corolla takes the track-focused route with raw, aggressive character, but it lacks the refinement and premium features found in the Volkswagen.
Moving up to the Audi RS 3 brings more power and luxury, yet at a much steeper price. The Golf R neatly bridges the gap, offering an ideal blend of speed, technology, and everyday usability that its competitors cannot match as completely.
VW Golf Considerations
The Golf R does not come cheap. With the available Black Edition, you’re looking at a $50,000 price tag, which is double the cost of a not-available standard model. For about 15K less, the Golf GTI also offers driving excitement, but it also no longer offers a manual transmission choice.
Additional Volkswagen Articles
Volkswagen Taos, By the Numbers
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, By the Numbers
About the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas
