2022 VW Golf R Wagon Is A Forbidden Fruit For U.S. That Even Gets A Drift Mode

The VW Golf range has just grown with the unveiling of the 2022 Golf R Wagon, also known as the Golf R Estate and Golf R Variant in select markets, which as you’d expect, do not include the U.S. or Canada.

Like the hatchback, the VW Golf R Wagon features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces the same 315 hp and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque. Power is sent through all-four wheels thanks to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

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VW says the Golf R Wagon can hit 62 mph (100km/h) in 4.9 seconds, 0.2 seconds slower than the hatchback and continue through to a 168 mph (270 km/h) top speed with the available R Performance Package or 155 mph (250 km/h) without. This package adds 19-inch wheels while also adding Nurburgring and Drift driving modes. If you want to get the most out of the new Golf R Wagon, this kit is a must-have.

The Golf R Wagon weighs 174 lbs (79 kg) more than the hatch but that’s a fair trade-off when you consider how much more practical it is. With the rear seats up, it offers 21.57 cubic-feet (611 liters) of cargo space and with the seats folded down, provides 58 cubic-feet (1,642 liters) of storage space. It can also tow 4,188 lbs (1,900 kg). VW has made some tweaks to the suspension system to combat the added weight and different weight distribution over the hatch.

Compared to its predecessor, the new car is 13.7-inches (349 mm) longer and offers a more spacious interior. The cabin also comes with all the same new features as the hatch, including blue ambient lighting, faux carbon fiber trim, sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and blue graphics across the infotainment and digital gauge cluster displays.

Pricing details haven’t been announced although we do know it will land in Germany, UK, and Switzerland in mid-August and cost a touch more than the hatch.