Volkswagen has made minor changes to its high-performance models, the Golf R and Golf R Variant, and announced them on January 10, 2025, launching them in the Japanese market.
This minor change includes a wide range of improvements, including changes to the interior and exterior design, improved driving performance, and the introduction of the latest technology. In this article, we will fully explain the appeal of the new Golf R and its evolution in detail.
The new Golf R made its spectacular debut as its Japan premiere at the Volkswagen booth at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, attracting a lot of attention.
New Golf R & Golf R Variant: Summary
Driving performance
- Equipped with a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder turbo engine, maximum output of 333 PS and maximum torque of 420 Nm
- 0-100km/h acceleration 4.6 seconds
- 7-speed DSG, full-time four-wheel drive system
Exterior
- Newly designed LED matrix headlights, illuminated VW emblem, rear combination lamps, and bumper
- Optional 19-inch forged wheels “Walmenau” (standard on R Advance)
interior
- Touch-type switches and large paddle shifter on steering wheel
- Specially designed digital meter cluster (tachometer in the center)
- Sports seats with integrated headrests (Base grade: Microfleece, R Advance: Napa leather)
advanced technology
- Latest infotainment system (large touchscreen, smartphone connectivity)
- Driving assistance systems “Travel Assist,” “Side Assist Plus,” and “Emergency Assist”
Golf R Variant
- Combines the driving performance of a Golf R with the practicality of a station wagon
- Spacious luggage space
price
- Golf R: 7,049,000 yen to 7,499,000 yen
- Golf R Variant: 7,129,000 yen to 7,579,000 yen
others
- Japan premiere at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025
- Scheduled for release from late January 2025
Volkswagen’s new Golf R: Improved performance for ultimate driving pleasure
At the heart of the new Golf R is a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine, the most powerfully tuned of the EA888 engine family. Maximum output is 333 PS, up 13 PS from the previous model, and maximum torque is 420 Nm, allowing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. This overwhelming power is transmitted to the road by a combination of a 7-speed DSG and full-time four-wheel drive system, providing the driver with the joy of controlling the car at their will on any road surface.
Volkswagen’s new Golf R: sophisticated exterior design that enhances driving performance
The exterior of the new Golf R features a design that combines aerodynamic performance with stylishness. Newly designed LED matrix headlights, an illuminated VW emblem, rear combination lamps, and a revised bumper shape all contribute to a sporty yet sophisticated look.
Additionally, new 19-inch forged wheels, known as “Walmenau,” are available as an option. Approximately 20 percent lighter than alloy wheels, these wheels contribute to reduced unsprung mass and therefore more agile handling.
Following a preview earlier this month, Volkswagen has unveiled the updated Golf R and Golf R Variant, models that combine superior performance, modern styling and new technology.
Like the Golf GTI , the top-of-the-line Golf R features a new front end with sleek headlights and an illuminated Volkswagen logo . It also features a new bumper with a more aggressive look. At the back, it features matte chrome mirrors, sporty side skirts, and 18- or 19-inch wheels. It also features new taillights, a gloss black diffuser, and a four-tailpipe exhaust system. Volkswagen says the exhaust system’s sound has been “further developed to enhance acoustic feedback and the car’s motorsport feel.”
Customers looking for a sportier look can choose new 19-inch Warmenau forged aluminum wheels. Weighing just 17.6 lbs (8 kg) each, these wheels are approximately 20 percent lighter than conventional wheels, helping to reduce unsprung weight. Additionally, their open design improves brake cooling.
As an option, the Golf R can be equipped with an Akrapovič titanium exhaust, revised IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights and new 3D LED taillights with dynamic flash function.
Volkswagen’s new Golf R: A sporty interior that excites drivers
The interior of the new Golf R features a cockpit design that allows the driver to concentrate. It is packed with sporty features unique to the R model, such as a steering wheel equipped with touch switches and large paddle shifters, and a specially designed digital meter cluster with a large tachometer in the center.
The seats are sports seats with integrated headrests. The base grade comes with black/blue micro fleece seats designed specifically for the R, while the R Advance comes standard with Napa leather seats with carbon-look elements on the side of the seats.
The interior features a new 12.9-inch infotainment display , a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, revised climate controls, a sports steering wheel, the new IDA voice assistant, access to ChatGPT, and models equipped with the Performance Package get a G-meter and GPS lap timer display.
Additionally, the Golf R comes equipped with sport seats and faux carbon fiber trim. Other highlights include blue accents, stainless steel pedals, and a 30-color ambient lighting system.
Volkswagen’s new Golf R: Comfort and safety brought by advanced technology
The new Golf R is equipped with the latest infotainment system and safety features. The large touchscreen infotainment system provides intuitive operation and excellent visibility. It also has a full range of smartphone connectivity functions, supporting a comfortable drive.
In terms of safety, the car is packed with the latest driving assistance systems, including “Travel Assist” to assist driving on highways, “Side Assist Plus” to ensure safety when changing lanes, and “Emergency Assist” to safely stop the vehicle in an emergency.
Volkswagen’s new Golf R Variant: a wagon that combines practicality and high performance
The new Golf R Variant is a model that combines the driving performance of the new Golf R with the high practicality of a station wagon. The spacious luggage space is sure to be useful in a variety of situations. From trips with family and friends to luggage for hobbies, you can load it with ease.
Price and grade of the new Volkswagen Golf R
The new Golf R is available in two grades: “R” and “R Advance.” Prices are as follows:
- Golf R: 7,049,000 yen to 7,499,000 yen
- Golf R Variant: 7,129,000 yen to 7,579,000 yen
The history of the Golf R
The first-generation Golf R was released in 2002 as the Golf R32. Equipped with a 3.2-liter V6 engine, it gained popularity as a hot hatch boasting overwhelming performance for its time. It continued to evolve with the second and third generations, and from the fourth generation onwards it was equipped with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine. The current fifth-generation model delivers excellent driving performance thanks to its powerful engine that produces a maximum output of 320ps and a maximum torque of 420Nm, as well as the latest 4WD system, 4MOTION.
A word from the editorial department
Volkswagen plans to further strengthen its presence in the Japanese market with the introduction of the new Golf R. Brand Director Imogen Buschmann said, “2025 will be a truly exciting year for Volkswagen in Japan.”
The new Golf R is an attractive model that firmly establishes its position as a Volkswagen sports icon. Its evolved performance, sophisticated design and advanced technology will captivate many drivers.
Please come and experience the charm of the new Golf R at your Volkswagen dealer.
Volkswagen news release
