The new Mk8 Volkswagen Golf R is on sale now. prices for the new model – which becomes the fastest accelerating Volkswagen on sale with a 0-62mph time of 4.7 seconds – start from £39,270.
The new Volkswagen Golf R squares to a host of 300bhp four-wheel drive hot hatches, including the BMW M135i, the Mercedes-AMG A 35 and the Audi S3. the latest iteration of the Golf R, however, is the most powerful of all.
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Under the bonnet sits a revised version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine used by the previous R. The changes to the EA888 evo4 unit unlock an extra 20bhp and 20Nm of torque – taking the hatchback’s output to 316bhp and 420Nm of torque.
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The engine sends power to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox – which, along with the performance hike, enables both that 0–62mph time and an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.
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As with most hot Volkswagens, the Golf R’s chassis is loaded with clever technology that’s designed to improve on-track performance. Stand-out features include a two-stage electronic stability programme, a sophisticated traction control system and a new torque vectoring system which can not only distribute the engine’s power between the front and rear axles – but also between the two rear wheels.