Fourth-gen Volkswagen Golf R on sale from $51,990

The Volkswagen Golf R has landed in Australia. Sitting at the pinnacle of the new Golf range, the fourth-generation Golf R is priced from $51,990 for the 6-speed manual R, $2,000 more than its equivalent predecessor.

Like the current Golf GTI, the Golf R is powered by the EA888 series four-cylinder engine. For its application in the Golf R, modifications were made to enhance its power output and fuel economy. The cylinder head – together with exhaust valves, valve seats and springs – pistons, high-pressure injection valves, as well as the turbocharger were all completely redesigned.

The result is 206kW of power @ 5,100-6,500rpm and 380Nm from 1,800-5,100rpm. When equipped with the optional 6-speed DSG gearbox, the Golf R will storm from 0-100km/h in just 5.0 seconds (6-speed manual adds 0.2 seconds).

Despite the impressive performance, the Golf R consumes just 7.1L/100km of fuel (manual consumes 7.3L/100km).

The Golf R features Volkswagen’s latest generation 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with Haldex 5 coupling that activates even before any wheel starts to slip. When operating under relatively low load or when coasting, the rear axle is decoupled, thus saving fuel. However, the rear axle can be variably engaged in fractions of a second whenever necessary via an electro-hydraulic oil pump.

The Golf R is equipped with XDL at the front and rear axles which is part of the electronic differential lock. It brakes the wheels on the inside of a bend and is said to optimise steering and handling through fast corners. When the car’s electronics detect excessively light loads on the inside wheels of a bend, the hydraulics of the Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) apply brake pressure to this wheel to restore traction.

In keeping with the Golf R’s performance heritage, the car’s is equipped with an ESP Sport function that will fully disable the ESP system for track use.

Outside, the Golf R can be distinguished by a more aggressive front and rear fascia, lowered ride height (5mm lower than Golf GTI), 19-inch ‘Cadiz’ wheels, matte chrome side mirror housings and quad exhaust pipes.

Options include panoramic glass sunroof ($1,850), Vienna leather upholstery ($3,150) and Driver assistance package ($1,000).