Volkswagen introduces hotter Golf R Performance variant in Europe

Volkswagen has introduced a hotter Performance variant to its range-topping 2017 Golf R model, albeit only in Europe, for now.

Said to be a faster and sharper version of the already rapid Golf R, the Performance variant gains a set of titanium exhaust system and stickier Pirelli Trofeo R tyres, similar to those offered as an option in the Lamborghini Huracan Performante.

It also gets drilled disc brakes and additional aerodynamic elements such as the air-curtains on the front bumper and the rear spoiler which adds up to 20kg of downforce.

While the Golf R’s 2.0-litre turbocharged four continues to pump out 228kW of power, the Performance package deactivates the speed limiter, lifting the hot hatch’s top speed from 250km/h to 267km/h. It’s 0-100km/h is unchanged at 4.6 seconds when mated with the 6-speed DSG transmission.

The Performance package is available on the Golf R and Golf R wagon.