VW has lifted the veils off the new Golf R Variant sport wagon on the eve of the Los Angeles Auto Show. For the first time in the history of the Golf R, there is now a station wagon version.
Powered by the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300PS (296hp) and 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque, the Golf R Variant is slightly slower to 100 km/h (62 mph) than the Golf R hatch, covering the sprint in 5.1 seconds (+0.2 seconds compared with the DSG-equipped Golf R hatch). Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).
The engine is mated to a standard six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox (there’s no mention of a manual transmission) which sends power to all four wheels via the permanent 4Motion system. Average fuel consumption is 7 l/100 km (34 mpg) in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), with CO2 emissions of 163 g/km.
The Golf R Variant features a 0.8-inch (20mm) lowered sport suspension than a stock Golf and is fitted as standard with VW’s progressive steering system and the “ESC Sport” stability control system, which can be deactivated for use on a racetrack. Optional features include the DCC adaptive damping system with a driving profile selector that features a Race mode.
Styling-wise, the VW Golf R Variant looks sharper than regular Golf wagon models thanks to the R design aerokit, distinctive radiator grille (with “R” logo), Bi-Xenon headlights with integrated daytime running lights, four chrome exhaust tips, a high-gloss black diffuser and 18-inch Cadiz aluminum-alloy wheels.
Inside, the Golf R Variant features “R”-branded sport seats with a fabric and Alcantara material mix, blue ambient lighting, automatic air conditioning, and the Composition Touch infotainment system, among many other things.
The VW Golf R Variant will go on sale in Europe in spring 2015 and should arrive in the United States as well – it wouldn’t make much sense to introduce it in LA if VW has no plans to sell it here, right?
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