The Golf R is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 328 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. All power is sent through the legendary 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission with blink-of-an-eye shifts. Behind the steering wheel are large paddle shifters for sequential shifting, which you will want to engage just for the fun of it. The power is then sent to the performance-oriented 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with Torque Vectoring. Torque Vectoring is a feature used by some modern cars to maximize torque to one or more wheels simultaneously, ensuring optimal grip and drivability.

The car’s behavior can transition from mild to wild thanks to easily selectable drive modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Race, Special, Drift, and Individual. In addition, the active damper system, optional on the GTI but standard on the R, provides 15 settings to customize the ride for the road or your mood. The steering is very direct, showcasing the vehicle’s German precision and the increased loading you feel as you engage curves at high speed.

While VW says the Golf R will reach 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, Car and Driver’s previous Golf R tester rocketed to 60 in just 4.1 seconds. As part of the magazine’s 0-to-150-to-0 speed test, the Golf R reached 150 mph and returned to 0 in a mere 40.2 seconds, beating the Honda Civic Type R and Hyundai Elantra N by 12.2 and 6.8 seconds, respectively. The Golf R’s brakes are so good that stopping from 150 mph took just 6.2 seconds, beating the Bentley Continental GT Speed, Toyota GR Supra 3.0, Kia EV6 GT, and the Bentley Bentayga S.

The excellent DSG dual-clutch 7-speed automatic is the only transmission offered. It enables fast upshifts and downshifts, and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters give the driver complete control. The EPA estimates 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

In 2025, both the GTI and Golf R receive a revised front bumper, featuring new headlights, an illuminated VW logo, a light bar across the front grille, and new taillights. Lightweight, forged 19-inch wheels not only reduce overall weight but also lower unsprung weight, improving handling and overall driving performance. Buyers will be able to choose from four exterior colors, including Lapiz Blue Metallic, Pure White, Mythos Black Metallic, and the new Carbon Gray Metallic.