Hot hatch and VW Golf enthusiasts may want to hold out on buying the 2021 VW Golf GTI or the Golf GTI Clubsport because, the most powerful production Golf of all time has been revealed.
At a glance, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R looks pretty much like the GTI/GTI Clubsport, save for some exterior tweaks like the new front bumper featuring a motorsport-style splitter and R-specific air intake grilles with high-gloss black elements, and a long-ass daytime running light that stretches from fender-to-fender, above the radiator grille.
Under the hood, however, it is a different story. The Golf’s 2.0L inline four turbocharged TSI engine has been coaxed to produce 315 ponies – 27 more over the outgoing U.S. model, and kicks out 30 lb-ft (41 Nm) more torque at 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) which is available from just 2,100 RPM.
Outfitted with a newly developed torque vectoring 4Motion all-wheel drive as standard and mated to 6-speed manual gearbox, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R rockets from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in just 4.7 seconds, sending it on its way top speed of 155 mph. 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission is an option that will be offered for those too lazy to work their left leg.
The power plant also features a fully-electronic coolant regulator unit that affords “very efficient thermal management with a short warm-up phase,” and variable valve time on both the intake and exhaust cams, with variable valve lift on the exhaust side. Snazzy.
Also present in the Golf R is a Vehicle Dynamics Manager, a new rear differential, electronic differential locks, and DCC adaptive damping system for optimal traction and increase agility.
Other distinctive features of the R-model include 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels wrapped in summer performance tires, blue brake calipers with R logo on the front, exclusive side skirts, matter chrome exterior mirror caps that project the R logo on the road when the doors are opened and closed, and a 0.8-inch lower stance over the standard production model.
Three colors will be offered, namely, Lapiz Blue Metallic, Pure White and Deep Black Pearl Effect. The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is slated to go on sale in the U.S. as a 2022 model “during the latter part of 2021.”
All images courtesy of Volkswagen AG.
