Volkswagen Golf R Launches in Europe With 265-hp and AWD

Volkswagen has just officially launched the high-performance Golf R model in Europe, just days after its first North American showing as a concept at the Montreal International Auto Show. As an even-higher performance version than the iconic GTI, the Golf R gets an upgraded version of the same 2.0-liter TFSI 4-cylinder as well as VW’s 4MOTION AWD system, making it an exceptional driver’s car – even in the rain… or snow.

Using the same 2.0 TFSI as found in the Audi TTS, the Golf R makes 265-hp at 6000 rpm and 258 ft-lbs of torque from 2500 to 50o0 rpm. Both a six-speed manual and six-speed dual-clutch transmission will be offered, allowing a 0-62 mph time of as low as 5.5 seconds (likely 5.3 seconds to 60 mph).

Other highlights include a new front fascia and rear bumper with dual center-exit exhausts, as well as a stiffer suspension that has been lowered by 25mm (1-inch). The list goes on an on, with a sport steering wheel, highly bolstered sport seats, upgraded brakes and 18-inch wheels (19s optional). There’s even a version of Audi’s Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) that allows the driver to adjust the sensitivity of the throttle, steering and suspension.

When the car was shown in Montreal, Volkswagen Canada said in a statement that it, “brings this Concept vehicle to Montreal to gauge public reaction and solicit feedback in order to determine the desirability of a premium performance model like the Golf R Concept for sale in the Canadian market at some point in the future.”

We have to imagine the Golf R will also make its way to major shows like the Chicago Auto Show next month, as there’s simply no way VW would sell such a low volume car in Canada and not the U.S.

Volkswagen has released an entirely list of specifications for the Golf R in Europe as well as a new gallery of photos. Feel free to peruse both below and give us your thoughts in if you think the Golf R should come to North America.

Wolfsburg/Ellmau, January 2010. The new Golf R is here. Designed by
Volkswagen Individual. All-wheel driven. As the flagship of the model
series it is equipped with standard Bi-Xenon headlights, LED daytime
running lights and LED rear lights. Shifted manually or by optional
DSG. At 199 kW/270 PS it is the most powerful version of the model
series ever built. At the same time, it is the most fuel-efficient Golf R of
all times – 21 percent (!) more fuel efficient than the previous model.
A high-class sports car with compact-class fuel economy. The data in
detail: The Golf R sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. The
Golf R performs even better when shifted with the optional direct shift
gearbox (DSG): It leaves the 100-km/h mark behind it in a sen sational
5.5 seconds. The best data: While the retired Golf R32 processed
10.7 litres fuel per 100 kilometres, the new Golf R only needs 8.5 litres
– 2.2 litres less! Accordingly, CO2 emissions are reduced from 255 to
199 g/km. After 100 kilometres, the automatically shifted Golf R DSG is
filled with just 8.4 litres (195 g/km CO2) at the fuel pump.
The enormous efficiency gain of the new Golf R is not some magic
trick; rather it is the result of intelligent downsizing. Its legendary
pre deces sor generated its power from a displacement of 3.2 litres
(“32”) and six cylin ders. In the new model, this is accomplished with
four cylinders and 2.0 litres of displacement – a highly advanced direct
injection petrol engine with turbo-charging (TSI). At the fuel pump and
Frugal – Golf R has most powerful TSI ever, yet it consumes just 8.4 litres as DSG
Exceptional – Top Golf with all-wheel drive has superior handling
More Power, Less Fuel:
New Golf R with 270 PS and 8.5 Litre Combined Fuel Consumption
Key Aspects
on the winding mountain road, this high-tech alliance is superior to a
classic six cylinder with multi-point injection. Proving that even the
sound of a four cylinder can leave a strong impression are the fifth and
sixth generations of the Golf GTI, also powered by a four cylinder TSI.
And the Golf R − and the chrome dual tailpipes of its sound-optimized
exhaust system − display a significantly broader “sound spectrum”.
The TSI’s torque characteristic is just as impressive. By comparison:
The six cylinder of the previous model developed a maximum torque
of 320 Newton-meters at 2,500 rpm. And that too was remarkably good.
The turbo four-cylinder direct injection engine of the new Golf R, on
the other hand, transfers 350 Newton-meters torque to the cranks-
haft, also available from 2,500 rpm, but it can maintain this peak value
up to 5,000 rpm. So the new car delivers a fascinatingly high level of
fundamen tal dynamic performance. The Golf R32 and Golf R are really
only equals in one discipline; they each have a top speed of 250 km/h
(electronically limited on the Golf R).
THE TSI OF THE GOLF R
The new Golf R uses the EA113 series direct-injection petrol engine;
its turbocharger makes it very flexible and variable right up to the
highest end of the performance curve. The 1,984 cm3 TSI’s specific
power is a respectable 100.3 kW/136.6 PS per litre displacement,
and its res ponsive ness is just as impressive. The engine’s power can
be spon taneously summoned in the blink of an eye over its entire
speed range. As mentioned, the engine also shows off its potential

acoustically. Visually too: Its two chrome tailpipes are visible under
the diffuser integra ted at the centre of the bumper – an “R trait” of the
previous model as well.
The four-cylinder engine develops its tremendous propulsive power
via a turbocharger (up to 1.2 bar boost pressure) with intercooling.
The engine, weighing in at just 152 kilograms, is controlled by a fully
electro nic engine management system with E-Gas. The cylinders of the
four-cylinder engine have been equipped with reinforcing bolts, unlike
less powerful TSI versions. Design engineers also designed stronger
connecting rods that can reliably transfer the engine’s high torque to
the crankshaft. Last but not least, the cylinder block was reinforced to
handle the aggressive engine forces.
THE NEW ALL-WHEEL DRIVE OF THE GOLF R
The Golf R transfers the TSI’s power to the road via the latest gene ration
of Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, which is standard
equipment. Compared to the version implemented in the Golf R32,
the system underwent significant advanced development. Above all,
power transmission between the front and rear axles – especially the
all-wheel differential that operates in an oil bath – demonstrates clear
advan ta ges compared to the previous generation. The most im por
tant
one: Acti vation of the all-wheel differential no longer requires a
differen ce between the front and rear axle speeds.

That is because, and this is different than on the previous generation,
an electric pump is being used to build pressure for the first time.
The electric pump supplies oil to a hydraulic reservoir with a working
pressure of 30 bar. A control module computes the ideal drive torque
for the rear axle, and it uses a valve to control how much oil pressure
is applied to the working pistons of the multi-plate clutch. The contact
pressure at the clutch plates rises in proportion to the desired torque
at the rear axle. The amount of torque that is transferred can be
varied con tinuously by the amount of pressure applied to the clutch
plates. Unlike the previous 4MOTION generation, the system operates
indepen dent of slip, since the system’s working pressure is always
available. When starting up and accelerating, spinning of the wheels at
the front axle is prevented more effectively, since the control module
regulates torque distribution based on dynamic axle loads. In extreme
cases, nearly 100 percent of the drive torque can be directed to the rear
axle, a plus in terms of active safety and dynamic performance.
SPORT CHASSIS OF THE GOLF R
When it came to the running gear, development engineers adopted
the first-class system of the current production Golf. This means: In
front the familiar McPherson strut suspension with helical springs
and telesco ping shock absorbers; at the rear a multi-link suspension
ensures that the standard ESP system seldom needs to intervene. The
basic layout was transformed into a sport chassis with ride-height
lowered 25 millimetres, and the springs, dampers and stabilisers were

completely re-tuned to this new configuration. Also available as an
option is DCC dynamic chassis control whose character was fully tuned
to the Golf R. This system continually adapts suspension damping to
the roadway and driving situation. In addition to the standard “Normal”
mode, the driver can manually activate a “Sport” or “Comfort” mode.
The brake system was also modified for the Golf R’s higher level of
driving performance. Instead of a 16-inch system, a 17-inch brake
system is used; all brakes have internally ventilated discs and R-speci
fic
brake callipers painted a high-gloss black with R-logo. In front the
discs are 345 millimetres in diameter, and 310 millimetres at the rear.
The elec tro nic stabilisation program (ESP) was also modified. It can
be switched to a new Sport mode via the ESP button. During very
fast and curve-filled drives – as on a circuit – the ESP system delays
inter ven tion, enabling even more responsive handling proper ties.
The electro-mechani cal power-assisted steering was given a sportier
characteris tic as well. If the Golf R is ordered with optional DCC
dyna mic chassis control, the power-assisted steering is given a specially
tuned characteristic for each of the system’s driving modes (“Sport”,
“Normal”, “Comfort”).
The running gear maintains its contact with the road via new
18-inch alloy wheels (“Talladega” type in “Sterling Silver” colour)
with 225/40 tyres as standard equipment. The same style wheels are
available in a 19-inch version with 235/35 tyres as an option. Customers
can also order the 19-inch wheels in “Glossy Black”. Regardless of the
colour, when 19-inch wheels are selected the headlight housings always
appear completely in black, and the Golf R windows are tinted from the
B-pillars back.
EXTERIOR FEATURES OF THE GOLF R
Like the first two generations of the Super Golf (I starting in 2002,
II in 2005) − and the car’s new sister model the Scirocco R − the new
Golf R also sports an entirely new set of exterior and interior features.
Volkswagen designers have given the Golf R independent styling with
a bundle of well-coordinated refinements, including large air scoops
to meet the cooling demands of the 270-PS engine. The Golf R clearly
represents the peak of the model series, and the quality of its styling
follows the basic design language of “La Semplicità” set forth by the
Head of Group Design, Walter de Silva.
Outside, it is customised by features such as the new “Talladega” style
wheels, black brake callipers with R-logo and new bumper design. In
front, three very large air intakes shape the front bumper section of
the Golf R; louvres on the intakes are painted in high-gloss black, and
standard LED strips that serve as daytime running lights are integrated
in the two outer air intakes. Also painted in high-gloss black are the two
louvres of the radiator grille. A new R-logo design appears in chrome on
the right side of the grille. Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering
light, included at no extra charge, illuminate the way through the night.
On its sides, the Golf R is recognisable by side skirt extensions in body
colour and mirror housings painted in high-gloss black.

The Golf R can be clearly made out as an independent top model at
the rear as well. The rear lights, a new design, stands out along with
the bumper with diffuser and centrally positioned tailpipes, R-logo and
larger roof edge spoiler. They operate with standard LED technology
that is visually distinctive and exhibits extremely quick response as well
as long in life.
INTERIOR FEATURES OF THE GOLF R
The sixth generation Golf, with its high-end interior materials, breaks
through class distinctions to the next higher class. The Golf R benefits
from this quality image too; its power reserves alone put it in a league
of its own. Additional special upgrades developed by Volkswagen
Individual highlight the car’s high-end positioning.
A key equipment option here is the newly designed “Top Sport seat
system” with heated seats in front that have excellent ergonomic
proper ties. The driver just sits down, adjusts the longitudinal and height
posi tions of the seat, adjusts the steering wheel, buckles up, and is
ready to go. The seat fits as though it were tailor-made. Here, the Golf R
− together with the Golf GTI and Golf GTD − is setting standards among
the international competition. The centre panels of the sport seats are
upholstered in the honeycomb textured grey-black “Kyalami” design
– named after the race course of the same name in South Africa; the
front edge of the seat is upholstered in Titan Black fabric. The in-
side panels of the side supports are upholstered with crystal-grey

“San Remo” micro-fibres. The rest of the seat components and the
roofliner are coloured black. The new R-logo is embroidered in the
front head restraints as well. Motorsport shell seats for driver and front
passenger are also available as an option; they have integrated head
restraints with embroidered R-logos. In this case, the centre seat panels
are upholstered in the “San Remo” micro-fibre fabric. On the outside,
the shell seats are upholstered with black leather.
All seams of the interior are in “Art Grey” (exception: Motorsport shell
seats). As so are the decorative seams of the standard multi-function
three-spoke leather steering wheel. Perforated leather is used at the top
and bottom of the steering wheel, ensuring maximum hand grip. The
sides of the steering wheel with their ergonomic motorsport attri bu tes
are fully trimmed in leather. Spokes in fine black piano paint add an
elegant aspect that finishes the sporty image. The centre steering wheel
spoke bears the R-logo. The fascinating material contrast of piano paint
and chrome conveys the passion for finesse and precision in every
detail of the interior.
Also re-styled are the R gearshift knob, carpet floor mats with piping
in “Art Grey”, aluminium door tread plates with R-logo and the
in struments with their blue pointers and a speedometer scale that reads
up to 300 km/h. Stainless steel sport pedals and R-specific instrument
and door accents in “Silver Lane” styling round out the custom features.
Standard equipment on the Golf R also includes an automatic climate
control system (“Climatronic”) and the “RCD 310” radio-CD system
(4 x 20 Watt) with MP3 player plus dual tuners.

OVERVIEW OF STANDARD FEATURES
(additional features or features deviating from the Golf Trendline that
is already equipped with standard ESP and six airbags)
Exterior and wheels
• Alloy wheels (4), “Talladega” type, 7 1/2 J x 18,
wheel locks for added theft protection, tyres 225/40 R 18
• Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering light
• Brake callipers in black with R-logo
• Bumpers in motorsport look, painted body colour
• Door mirror housings in glossy black
• Dual tailpipes in the centre
• Radiator grille black with R-logo
• Rear lights in LED technology, smoked
• Rear spoiler in body colour
• Side skirt extensions in body colour
Interior
• Cargo pass-through in rear bench with rear centre armrest
• Cargo space trim panels with additional bin on right
• Chrome surround on rotary light switch, chrome accents on
mirror adjustment and window lift switches
• Decorative inserts in “Silver Lane” aluminium on instrument panel and
door trim panels
• Door and side trim in leather look with Art Grey decorative seams

• Fabric seat covers in “Kyalami” design, with R-logo in front head restraints,
inner surfaces of side supports in “San Remo” micro-fibre with decorative
seams in Art Grey
• Front centre armrest in leather look with decorative seams in Art Grey,
with storage box, 2 air nozzles and 2 cup holders in rear
• Front tread plates in aluminium with R-logo
• Hand brake grip leather-trimmed with Art Grey decorative seams
• Heated front seats
• Leather-trimmed gearshift grip with aluminium accents and
glossy black look as well as Art Grey decorative seams
• Lumbar supports in front
• Multi-function leather-trimmed steering wheel (3 spokes) with
gear shift controls; glossy black accents, R-logo and Art Grey decorative
seams; controls for multi-function display, radio and telephone
• Multi-function leather-trimmed steering wheel with Tiptronic controls for
DSG with shift paddles, glossy black decor and R-logo and Art Grey decora-
tive seams; controls for multi-functional display, radio and telephone
• Pedals in stainless steel
• R-logo above the glove box
• Roofliner in black
• Storage compartment with hinged door in roofliner
• Storage pockets on front seat backrests
• Top sport seats in front, height adjustable
• Woven floor mats, front and rear, with piping in Art Grey
Safety
• ParkPilot, acoustic signals warn of obstacles in front of and behind
the vehicle

Functional
• “Climatronic” climate control system
• “Plus” anti-theft alarm system
• “Plus” multi-function display
• “RCD 310” radio system
• 12-V appliance outlet in cargo space
• All-wheel drive
• Door mirrors with passenger side mirror lowering and automatic dimming
• Headlight cleaning system
• Hill Hold Control is standard with DSG
• Illuminated vanity mirrors in sun visors
• LED daytime running lights in bumper
• Rain sensor
• Reading lamps with chrome surrounds in front (2) and in the rear (2)
• Sport chassis, ride height lowered by approx. 25 mm
• Tyre pressure indicator
• Warning lamp for washer fluid level
• Windscreen washer nozzles in front, automatically heated

R-DATA
Golf R Manual Golf R DSG
Engine type 4-cylinder petrol (TSI),
1,984 cm3
4-cylinder petrol (TSI),
1,984 cm3
Max. power
at engine speed
199 kW/270 PS
from 6,000 rpm
199 kW/270 PS
from 6,000 rpm
Max. torque
at engine speed
350 Nm from 2,500
to 5,000 rpm
350 Nm from 2,500
to 5,000 rpm
0 – 100 km/h 5.7 s 5.5 s
V/max 250 km/h 250 km/h
Fuel consump. * (ø) 8.5 l/100 km 8.4 l/100 km
Fuel tank capacity 60 litres 60 litres
CO2 emissions 199 g/km 195 g/km
Length 4,212 mm 4,212 mm
Width, 3-door 1,779 mm 1,779 mm
Width, 5-door 1,786 mm 1,786 mm
Height 1,461 mm 1,461 mm
Kerb weight 1,521 kg 1,541 kg
Cargo capacity 350 to 1,305 litres 350 to 1,305 litres
Transmission 6+R, manual 6+R, DSG
Drive type All-wheel All-wheel
Tyres 225/40 R 18 W 225/40 R 18 W
* = 3-door, driver 68 kg, cargo 7 kg, tank 90 % full;
calculated per Directive 92/21/EEC