Volkswagen Golf R

The interior styling is identical to other models in the Golf series. Most importantly, it is high on functionality, also fit, finish and material quality is top-notch. The plastic used inside is much better than other models in the segment; this gives Golf R an edge over competitors. Talking of feature list, a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and dual-zone climate control are standard, however premium tech such as memory settings, faux-suede accents, and ventilated seats are missing. It also gets Volkswagen Car-Net infotainment unit with a user-friendly interface and easily operable controls; however, the touchscreen response is a bit slow. Also standard inside is the 8.0-inch touchscreen system which is supported by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Though, it misses out on the mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. The functional cabin offers a large cargo volume and multiple cabin-storage points.

On the outside, it mirrors the base Golf, save for a few additional elements that separate it from the regular model. At the front, it sports an R-design grille and reworked bumpers at both ends. Side skirts at the face have also been revised in line with the R-design grille. The LED lighting package includes LED headlamps, LED license plate lighting and LED daytime running lights at the front. At the back, it sports LED-equipped tail-lamps and an adaptive front-lighting system (AFS) at the front. While the 19-inch alloys are standard, customers also get optional 19-inch, five-spoke gloss black units with the black alloy wheel package at an extra premium. The Volkswagen Golf R is offered in 5 standard colour options, and 40 custom paint schemes under the special Spektrum colour program. It is worth noticing that most of the colour options have been taken from Volkswagen's iconic models. 

The four-cylinder engine is powerful and agile, however slight turbo lag is experienced at low speeds. It works well with the responsive automatic gearbox. Also, the brake pedal works brilliantly.

The Volkswagen Golf R derives power from a 2.0-litre, in-line, four-cylinder, 16-valve, turbocharged intercooled TSI engine. In terms of power, this unit makes 288 hp at 5,400 rpm along with 280 lb-ft of torque at 1800 rpm. Transmission options on the Golf R include a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic unit. Power is sent to all four wheels through an all-wheel-drive system. As for fuel economy, it delivers an impressive 30 mpg on the highway in real-word conditions. 

Safety is paramount at Volkswagen and Golf R follows the tradition. It packs a host of active safety tech including an electronic stability control (ESC), anti-slip regulation (ASR), electronic differential lock (EDL) and engine brake assist (EBA). Besides, an anti-lock-braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA) are also part of the package. Other passive safety features have also been fitted such as dual front airbags, front and side thorax airbag supplemental restraint system, side curtain protection head airbags at both ends, height-adjustable safety belts at the front with pre-tensioners and load limiters, LATCH and crash-optimized front end. It also features a tire pressure monitoring system and an intelligent crash response system. Also, forward-collision warning and automated emergency, lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitor long with rear cross-traffic alert are available with the Golf R. 

The Volkswagen Golf R is the top-spec model in the Golf’s range. Sitting at the top-of-the-range, the fully-loaded model carries high pricing. It is a completely fun-to-drive car, thanks to the powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. It has a functional cabin with ample cargo volume and storage points, though it misses out on some connectivity bits such as mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.