Volkswagen Golf R Special Edition lobs upgraded brakes and exhaust

Volkswagen’s Golf R performance range is streamlined to two equipment packed variants for 2019 with the addition of 400 Special Editions that – in an Australian first – bristle with R Performance Options.

While the Golf R hatch and the Golf R Wagon gain the standard fitment of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Assist with adaptive lane guidance, Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Monitor and 7-speed DSG, the new range Volkswagen R Performance Options – previously available only in Europe – arrive in the shape of the Golf R Special Edition.

Developed for the Golf R in co-operation with exhaust specialist Akrapovic, the R Performance exhaust and rear muffler system fitted in the special edition model is made from a titanium alloy resistant to high temperatures and characterised by four striking round pipes and unique sounds that range from unobtrusive to roaring. The acoustics typical of Akrapovic particularly occur at high engine speeds and when changing gear. It saves 7kg compared with the standard R system.

The cross drilled front brake discs with special performance brake pads and a silver logo plate on the calliper are part of the R Performance brake system. This too is lighter than the set up found on the standard Golf R by some 2kg. It’s claimed to provide increased stability and improved wet conditions response while being less prone to fading. Combined with gloss black Pretoria 19-inch alloy wheels weighing just 9.6kg, unsprung mass is further reduced.

To complete this special model package, Volkswagen Australia has included the popular Dynaudio 400W premium audio system and added such visual touches as gloss black door mirrors and a subtle tailgate badge.

• 213kW/380Nm 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine
• 7-speed wet-clutch DSG
• 4MOTION all-wheel-drive
• Extended Electronic Differential Lock (XDL)
• Active Info Display
• Vienna leather appointed upholstery
• Electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function
• Dynamic cornering lights
• Dynamic Light Assist
• R body styling
• Front Assist with City Emergency Brake (City EB) and Pedestrian Monitoring
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Assist with adaptive lane guidance
• Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert
• 19″ alloy wheels and adaptive chassis control
• 9.2″ satellite navigation system with App-Connect
• Gesture Control
• Voice Control
• LED headlights and Light Assist
• Leather sports multi-function steering wheel
• Electrically foldable exterior mirrors
• Rear View Camera (RVC) and Park Assist with manoeuvre braking
• Keyless Access, keyless entry and starting system
• Dark tinted rear and rear side windows
• Metallic and Pearl Effect paint
• Exterior mirrors with memory function
• Luggage partition net and chrome roof rails (Wagon)

Options

As above with:

• Turmeric Yellow Metallic paint choice
• Akrapovic titanium exhaust system
• Performance brake package
• Glass Black door mirrors
• Black Pretoria 19″ alloys wheels
• Dynaudio Excite 400W premium audio system
• “R Performance Options” tailgate badge