It’s also one of the most technologically advanced Golfs.
It is understandable that people are disappointed that Volkswagen has discontinued the standard Golf in the US. Since 1983, the small hatchback has been a mainstay for Volkswagen. There is a silver lining. Americans will still be able to get the GTI or GolfR. Both of these models promise to be even better than before. The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is a new model.
This is the most powerful VW Golf R ever made. The new Golf R packs a turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine that produces 315 horsepower (235kilowatts) as well as 310 pound-feet (442 newton meters). This gives it a time of 4.7 seconds to go from 0-60 and a top speed of 155mph (250 kmh). These power figures are a 27-horsepower and 15-lb-ft improvement over the previous model. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission and an optional seven speed DSG.
The 2022 Golf R is equipped with 4Motion all wheel drive. However, this setup is quite different from previous generations. VW claims a new rear differential, which distributes power variablelly between the axles. It also has the ability to transmit up to 100 percent torque to the outside wheels using a dedicated “Drift Mode”. The Drift Mode, one of two new drive modes that can be configured within Race mode, joins the standard drive options such as Sport, Comfort, or Individual.
VW also completely retuned Golf R’s multi-link rear suspension (strut-type front) and multi-link back suspension (multi-link rear). This gave the Golf R a ride height of 0.8 inches (20 millimeters) less than the previous version. New geometry and stiffer springs make the new performance Golf 10 per cent stiffer than its predecessor front and back. The lightweight aluminum subframe also helps to reduce the weight by 6.6 pounds
The latest Golf R looks just as good visually as its performance. A new front bumper is added to the hot hatch with a motorsport-inspired splitter and R-specific air intake grilles. Gloss black elements are also included. Standard equipment includes a set of alloy wheels measuring 19 inches and summer performance tires.
The cabin features a tech-forward design, similar to the GTI. It is highlighted by a 10.0-inch touchscreen, VW Digital Cockpit with virtual instrument clusters, and touchpad controllers on its steering wheel. The steering wheel even has a “R” button that allows you to access the Race mode. The dash, seats and steering wheel are adorned with blue trim pieces and “R” logos. The Golf R also gets Nappa leather seats for the first time.
The 2022 VW Golf R will be available in the USA from late next year. Pricing information is not known, but the 2019 model was priced at $40,395. The new version will likely be just as expensive, if any, than the previous one.