Volkswagen debuts more powerful Golf R with optional 'Black Edition'

Fresh from announcing the new Golf GTI Clubsport early in June, and a more powerful standard GTI model in May, the new car onslaught continues at Volkswagen with the debut of the Golf R enhanced for 2025 onwards.

Chief among the optimisations for the top Golf are new engine outputs of 245kW and 420Nm, now 10kW and 20Nm higher compared to the initial model launched in South Africa during 2022. Top speed in standard trim is 250km/h but can be boosted by 20km/h to 270km/h with the optional R-Performance package.

The front fascia is redesigned with LED Plus headlights, an illuminated VW badge and air curtains in the bumper. The rear LED tail light clusters are also new, and new 19-inch “Warmenau” forged wheels are available as an optional extra. An even larger roof spoiler offering additional downforce is also integrated. 

Inside, the infotainment system’s hardware and software has been revamped with a larger touch-operated 32.8cm display with improved graphics and a function menu structure. Furthermore, it debuts the AI-based software “ChatGPT” to answer questions, vocally.

The Digital Cockpit Pro is now standard fitment and with an enhanced sport skin featuring a central round rev counter with an R-specific design, as well as the R-View with a horizontal rpm display. 

Sport seats with integrated head restraints are standard, while an optional black nappa leather interior with carbon-look elements is available as well as interior applications in real carbon. 

The recipe of a high-power 2.0l turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a seven-speed DSG transmission and the 4Motion all-wheel drive system prevails, albeit with the earlier mentioned boost in power. The R-Performance package offers two additional modes: Drift and Special. The latter mode is specifically adapted for track driving conditions, including a GPS lap timer and G-meter.

Adaptive chassis control (DCC), which reacts to the road surface and driving situation, continuously taking into account various elements including steering, braking and acceleration, is available standard but to vehicles sold in Germany. It will benefit owners who will become regular visitors to the Nürburging Nordschleife, where the dynamic prowess of the car was honed. 

Volkswagen is also announcing an exclusive Golf R Black Edition with the look of a dark lord thanks to darker VW badges and R logos, black R brake calipers, black 19-inch Estoril wheels and black tailpipe trims, including darkened IQ.Light LED matrix headlights. Opting for this model adds the aforementioned R-Performance package as standard, which is an optional extra for other models.