Volkswagen unveils 2014 Golf R as most powerful production Golf yet
The new seventh-generation Golf R arrives with 300bhp, all-wheel drive and improved efficiency, making its public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Volkswagen has revealed the new 2014 Golf R ahead of its public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, confirming it as the most powerful production Golf to date with 300bhp from a revised 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
The seventh-generation Golf R lifts power by 30bhp compared to its predecessor, now producing 221kW (300bhp). Torque also rises, with Volkswagen quoting 380Nm available from 1,800rpm to 5,500rpm. The engine, based on the EA888 unit, drives all four wheels through the latest 4MOTION system using a fifth-generation Haldex coupling.
Performance and efficiency gains
With the six-speed manual gearbox, the Golf R accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds, a notable improvement over the previous model’s 5.7 seconds. The optional six-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission cuts this further to 4.9 seconds. Top speed remains electronically limited to 250km/h.
Despite the performance increase, Volkswagen claims fuel consumption has dropped by 18 percent compared to the outgoing car. The manual version returns 7.1l/100km on the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of 165g/km. The DSG model is rated at 6.9l/100km and 159g/km CO2, thanks in part to stop-start and battery regeneration systems.
Chassis and technology updates
The new Golf R features a bespoke sports suspension, lowering the ride height by 20mm compared to the standard Golf and 5mm lower than the GTI. Progressive steering and an ESC Sport function, which can be fully deactivated for track use, are standard. Buyers can specify Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) with a new Race mode as an option.
Braking and traction are handled by the updated 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, which directs power to the rear axle when required. The car rides on 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 19-inch options available.
Exterior and equipment changes
Visual changes mark out the Golf R from lesser models. The car receives a more aggressive body kit, including revised bumpers, side skirts, a rear diffuser, smoked LED taillights and a quad chrome exhaust setup. Bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights are standard. The Golf R sits lower than the GTI and features unique R badging and trim details.
The interior specification and UK pricing were not detailed at launch, but Volkswagen is expected to position the Golf R above the GTI in the range. For more on the GTI and its debut, seeVolkswagen unveils new Golf GTI at 2012 Paris Motor Show.
Market position and public debut
The 2014 Golf R arrives as the flagship of the Mk7 Golf range, offering more power and advanced technology than the GTI and previous R models. Its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2013 places it among the headline performance launches of the year.
Sales were expected to begin in Europe following its show debut, with UK deliveries to follow. The Golf R continues Volkswagen’s tradition of offering a high-performance, all-wheel-drive hot hatch at the top of the Golf line-up.
