New for 2015
The Golf R is all-new for 2015, moving to the latest seventh-generation Golf platform.
R You Ready?
Volkswagen essentially invented the hot hatchback with the Golf GTI, but true fans of the brand know that model isn’t the hottest VW available. For the past three generations of Golf, Volkswagen has built something more extreme in limited numbers for performance junkies, and that tradition continues with the new seventh-generation Golf.
The 2015 Volkswagen Golf R isn’t just for hardcore VW fans, though. It’s as comfortable and sophisticated as a regular Golf, but also has the power and agility to challenge some much more expensive machinery.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2015 Volkswagen Golf R sits at the top of the VW performance hierarchy with the most powerful engine and most sophisticated performance hardware of anything from Wolfsburg.
It starts with a pumped-up version of the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injected four-cylinder engine used in other VW models. It produces 292 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, which is 36 hp and 37 lb-ft more than the previous generation. It’s paired with VW’s six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive. A six-speed manual will be added for 2016, Volkswagen says.
The DSG has a launch control feature, which allows the Golf R to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while its top speed is 155 mph. At the same time, the lighter and more efficient Golf R can also manage an EPA-rated 26 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway),* a notable improvement over the old model’s 22 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway).*
There’s also plenty of tech to help you go faster, including an ESC Sport setting for the stability control that raises the threshold of intervention, and XDS+ brake-based cross differential locks, which use the brakes to shift power side to side for better cornering, augmenting the all-wheel drive system’s own torque-shifting capabilities.
An upgraded suspension system lowers the ride height by 0.8 inch compared to a standard Golf, and features DCC adaptive damping with three programmable modes (Normal, Individual, Race). The helm gets more progressive feel than the last Golf R thanks to new variable-ratio power steering, while braking duties are handled by the hardware from the GTI Performance Package.
Features and Trims
The 2015 Volkswagen Golf R is available only as a five-door, five-seat hatchback, in a two trim levels starting at $36,595.**
That base price may seem pretty high compared that of a standard Golf, but the Golf R is also the most well-equipped model in the range. In addition to all of the model-specific performance enhancements, standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights with adaptive front lighting, Bluetooth, touchscreen infotainment system, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, leather sport seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a rearview camera.
The second Golf R trim level adds the DCC adaptive suspension system, navigation, 19-inch wheels, Fender Premium Audio System, and front and rear Park Distance Control safety tech.
Exterior/Interior
To match the upgrades under the skin, the 2015 Volkswagen Golf R gets more aggressive exterior styling that’s still subtle enough to surprise opponents at the stop light. The makeover includes a redesigned front fascia with larger air intakes and model-specific headlights, plus new side skirts, alloy wheels, and a rear bumper with diffuser and pair of chrome exhaust tips on both sides.
On the inside, the Golf R gets comfortable leather sport seats and a model-specific multifunction steering wheel. The dashboard and door panels also feature a “Carbon Touch” design, with stainless steel-look trim and blue lighting. The pedals, foot support, and shift knob get an aluminum-alloy finish to class things up even further, and the instruments and touchscreen start menu also get their own R-specific graphics.
Strip away all of the sporty jewelry, though, and the Golf R is still a practical, five-door hatchback. It still has 93.5 cubic feet of passenger volume and 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space (52.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded). So this is one performance car that can easily serve as a daily driver, or just a great way to scare a few of your closest friends.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Volkswagen Golf R includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and six standard airbags. Also standard is Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking system, which applies the brakes when a collision is detected by the airbag sensors, helping to minimize the chance of a secondary impact. Front and rear Park Distance Control is available as an option.
Bottom Line
The 2015 Volkswagen Golf R is among the hottest of hot hatchbacks, boasting a sophisticated powertrain in the body of an unassuming compact car.
To learn more, or to schedule a test drive, contact or viist us at 3Birds Template today.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.
Image: Volkswagen
