As we get closer to the Frankfurt Motor Show’s press days (September 10-11), automakers bring on fresh details about their international premieres. So is the case with VW, which has revealed more photos and a video of the most powerful (production) Golf ever, the Golf R. Not so much new information though.
Powered by a 300PS (296hp) 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, the Golf R sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and reaches an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
The new Golf R is not only 30PS more powerful than its predecessor, but also 18 percent more fuel-efficient, as it averages 6.9 l/100 km (34 US mpg) when equipped with the DSG gearbox. The 2.0-liter TSI engine also develops 30 Nm (22 lb-ft) more torque, for a total of 380 Nm (375 lb-ft). VW says the engine has undergone a motor racing development program in order to reach such power and torque outputs.
The power is put down by all four wheels via an updated 4Motion all-wheel drive system, something that VW claims ensures better traction in all conditions, whether on the road or on the racetrack.
Compared with the seventh-generation Golf upon which it is based, the Golf R features some rather mild cosmetic upgrades such as bigger air intakes, more aggressive bumpers and side skirts, plus double exhausts on each side of the rear diffuser.
The model is offered as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, while a six-speed double-clutch automatic (DSG) is available as an option. Standard equipment includes progressive steering, bi-xenon headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels shod with 225/40 low-profile tires.
The new Golf R will arrive in European markets at the end of 2013, with prices in Germany starting from €38,325 ($50,610). That being said, scroll down to watch VW’s works rally driver Sebastien Ogier hoon the Golf R on the racetrack.
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
VIDEO