Refreshed Volkswagen Golf R 2025 is more powerful than ever, but the hot hatch hero still hasn’t received all the updates available to the brand’s wider small car range.
Volkswagen Australia has yet to confirm when it will be new Golf R will come to showrooms. The updated Golf ‘Mk8.5’ range will launch in the first half of 2025.
Although the Golf R has kept the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood for nearly 15 years, it has now moved into production. Capacity 245kW And Torque 420Nm.
These outputs are identical to the limited run product 20 years And Limited edition 333 models, and shows a 10kW and 20Nm increase on the outgoing hatchback version – but the Golf R wagon (No longer available in Australia) matches the new torque figure.
Volkswagen claims the Mk8.5 Golf R can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, reducing the sprint time of its predecessor by 2/10, while reaching a maximum speed of 270 km/h. h – with the condition of adding the optional Performance package.
There are no changes to the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission nor the all-wheel drive system, which includes torque vectoring to allow more power to be sent to the rear wheels if needed and usability’ Drift mode’.
Like previous Volkswagen Golf facelifts, design changes to the new R are minimal, although its lower bumper appears to have increased.
While LED headlights remain standard on European models, overseas buyers can add a new set of LED matrix lights, which are standard on the Australian-delivered Mk8 Golf R.
The Volkswagen central grille logo is now also illuminated, combined with full-width daytime running lights at the front of the car.
Throughout this story are images of Volkswagen’s new 19-inch ‘Warmenau’ forged wheels, available on overseas models as an optional extra. There’s no word on whether we’ll get them in Australia, or whether the upcoming model’s ‘Estoril’ wheels will still be available.
Inside the cabin is Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, which measures 10.25 inches and includes Golf R-specific graphics such as a central circular or horizontal speedometer.
Oddly the R appears to have not followed the changes to the wider Mk8.5 Golf range by returning physical buttons to the steering wheel controls, instead sticking with the controls The sense of touch is greatly distorted.
However, it appears to get volume and climate control sliders located below the 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen.
The infotainment system now integrates the IDA smart voice assistant supported by ChatGPT.
While black Nappa leather seats are optional, standard cloth seats feature striking blue trim.
Owners who choose the optional Performance package also get two additional driving modes – the aforementioned ‘Drift’ setting as well as a ‘Special’ mode, said to be developed to best suit the track Nurburgring.
The package also adds a GPS lap timer and G-force readout to the digital instrument cluster, as well as a larger roof spoiler.
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Golf R Black Version -
European buyers can also opt for the special Golf R Black Edition, which features darkened badging and headlights, black brake calipers, black 19-inch Estoril wheels and black exhaust tips, as well as a standard Performance package. standard.
Australian launch and pricing are yet to be announced.
The upcoming Volkswagen Golf R is priced from $70,590 excluding on-road costs in Australia.
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