The VW Golf Mk8 has just received a mid-lifecycle update, but the German tuner JMS Fahrzeugteile revisited the good-old Mk4, dressing it with an aggressive bodykit. The visual modifications are inspired by the flagship VW Golf R32, combined with 19-inch wheels and a new exhaust.
The modified hatchback features a new front bumper with large intakes and a new grille that goes without the VW badge. Furthermore, the vented and “lightweight” bonnet extends over the stock headlights for the oh-so ’00s “bad-boy” looks. The profile is dominated by a new set of Barracuda Karizzma 19-inch wheels finished in matte black, sculpted side skirts, and aerodynamic mirrors. Finally, the rear end gets a significantly deeper rear bumper, inspired by the R32.
The stainless steel dual 90-mm tailpipes are courtesy of an upgraded exhaust system by Friedrich Motorsport which will likely bring an angrier sound to the Golf.
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JMS Fahrzeugteile
Besides the new exhaust, the only other mechanical upgrade is the KW Variant 1 coilover suspension, which reduces the ground clearance by 45 mm (1.8 inches) at the front and 40 mm (1.6 inches) at the rear. For VW owners who want something even more extreme, JMS can retrofit the Golf IV with strut bars, a roll cage, and performance upgrades depending on the powertrain.
The Neckartenzlingen-based tuner didn’t disclose pricing for the body kit, but the alloy wheels cost around €1,400 ($1,500) for this size.
The VW Golf IV was introduced in 1997, and the flagship R32 followed in 2003, starting the legacy of the R-branded hot hatchbacks. The original R32 was the most powerful Golf of its time, thanks to the 3.2-liter VR6 engine that produced 238 hp (177 kW / 241 PS). Power was transmitted to all four wheels via a six-speed manual or a DSG automatic, with the help of a Haldex all-wheel-drive system.
