More Power, Less Fuel:

New Volkswagen Golf R with 188 kW and 8.4 Litre* Combined Fuel Consumption

Frugal – Golf R has the most powerful TSI engine, yet it consumes just 8.4 litres (DSG)
Exceptional – All wheel drive Golf R has superior handling

The new Volkswagen Golf R is here. As the flagship model of the Golf range, Golf R comes standard with features such as Bi-Xenon headlights, separate LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights. The Golf R can either be ordered with manual or DSG transmissions. At 188 kW, it is the most powerful Golf model ever built. At the same time, it is more fuel-efficient than Golf R32.

The data in detail: The Golf R sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds whilst the DSG is even faster taking a mere 5.5 seconds to reach 100km/h.
The best data: While the previous generation Golf R32 consumed 9.7 litres fuel per 100 kilometres, the new Golf R only needs 8.5 litres – 1.2 litres less (CO2 emissions value is 199 g/km).  Golf R with DSG transmission only consumes 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres (195 g/km CO2).

The enormous efficiency gain of the new Golf R is the result of intelligent downsizing. Its legendary predecessor generated its power from a displacement of 3.2 litres and six cylinders. In the new model, this is accomplished with four cylinders and 2.0 litres of displacement – a highly advanced direct injection petrol engine with turbo-charging (TSI). At the fuel pump and on the winding mountain road, this high-tech combination is superior to a classic six cylinder with multi-point injection.

The TSI's torque characteristic is just as impressive. By comparison: The six cylinder of the previous model developed a maximum torque of 320 Newton-meters at 2,500 rpm. And that too was remarkably good. The turbo four-cylinder direct injection engine of the new Golf R, on the other hand, transfers 350 Newton-meters torque to the crankshaft, also available from 2,500 rpm, and it can maintain this peak value up to 5,000 rpm. So the Golf R delivers a high level of fundamental dynamic performance. The Golf R32 and Golf R are really only equals when it comes to the top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited on the Golf R).

THE TSI OF THE GOLF R

The Volkswagen Golf R uses the EA113 series direct-injection petrol engine; its turbocharger makes it very flexible and variable right up to the highest end of the performance curve. The 1,984 cm3 TSI's specific power is a respectable 100.3 kW per litre displacement, and its responsiveness is just as impressive. The engine's power can be spontaneously summoned in the blink of an eye over its entire speed range. As mentioned, the engine also shows off its potential acoustically. Visually too: Its two chrome tailpipes are visible under the diffuser integrated at the centre of the bumper – an "R trait" of the previous model as well.

The four-cylinder engine develops its tremendous propulsive power via a turbocharger (up to 1.2 bar boost pressure) with intercooling. The engine, weighing in at just 152 kilograms, is controlled by a fully electronic engine management system with E-Gas. The cylinders of the four-cylinder engine have been equipped with reinforcing bolts, unlike less powerful TSI versions. Design engineers also designed stronger connecting rods that can reliably transfer the engine's high torque to the crankshaft.  The cylinder block has been reinforced to handle the aggressive engine forces.

THE NEW ALL-WHEEL DRIVE OF THE GOLF R

The Golf R transfers the TSI's power via the latest generation of Volkswagen's 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, which is a standard feature. Compared to the Golf R32, the system in the Golf R underwent significant advanced development.  The power transmission between the front and rear axles demonstrates clear advantages compared to the previous generation. The activation of the all-wheel differential no longer requires a difference between the front and rear axle speeds. An electric pump is now being used to build pressure. The electric pump supplies oil to a hydraulic reservoir with a working pressure of 30 bar. A control module computes the ideal drive torque for the rear axle, and it uses a valve to control how much oil pressure is applied to the working pistons of the multi-plate clutch. The contact pressure at the clutch plates rises in proportion to the desired torque at the rear axle. The amount of torque that is transferred can be varied continuously by the amount of pressure applied to the clutch plates. Unlike the previous 4MOTION generation, the system operates independent of slip, since the system's working pressure is always available. When starting up and accelerating, spinning of the wheels at the front axle is prevented more effectively, since the control module regulates torque distribution based on dynamic axle loads. In extreme cases, nearly 100 percent of the drive torque can be directed to the rear axle, a plus in terms of active safety and dynamic performance.

SPORT CHASSIS OF THE GOLF R

When it came to the running gear, development engineers adopted the first-class system of the current production Golf. In front, the Golf R uses the familiar McPherson strut suspension with helical springs and telescoping shock absorbers. At the rear, a multi-link suspension ensures that the standard ESP system seldom needs to intervene. The basic layout was transformed into a sport chassis with ride-height lowered 25 millimetres, and the springs, dampers and stabilisers were completely re-tuned to this new configuration. Also available as an option is Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) whose character was fully tuned to the Golf R. This system continually adapts suspension damping to the roadway and driving situation. In addition to the standard "Normal" mode, the driver can manually activate a "Sport" or "Comfort" mode.

The brake system was also modified for the Golf R's higher level of driving performance. Instead of a 16-inch system, a 17-inch brake system is used; all brakes have internally ventilated discs and R-specific brake callipers painted a high-gloss black with R-logo. In front the discs are 345 millimetres in diameter, and 310 millimetres at the rear.

The Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP) was also modified. It can be switched to a new Sport mode via the ESP button. During very fast and curve-filled drives – as on a circuit – the ESP system delays intervention, enabling even more responsive handling proper ties.

The electro-mechanical power-assisted steering was given a sportier characteristic as well. If the Golf R is ordered with optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), the power-assisted steering is given a specially tuned characteristic for each of the system's driving modes ("Sport", "Normal" and "Comfort").

The running gear maintains its contact with the road via new 19-inch alloy wheels ("Talladega" type in "Sterling Silver" colour) with 235/35 tyres.

EXTERIOR FEATURES OF THE GOLF R

The Golf R sports an entirely new set of exterior and interior features. Volkswagen designers have given the Golf R independent styling with a bundle of well-coordinated refinements, including large air scoops to meet the cooling demands of the 188 kW engine. The Golf R clearly represents the peak of the model range, and the quality of its styling follows the basic design language of "La Semplicità" set forth by the Head of Group Design, Walter de Silva.

The exterior has been customised with features such as the new "Talladega" style wheels, black brake callipers with R-logo and new bumper design. In front, three large air intakes shape the front bumper section; louvres on the intakes are painted in high-gloss black, and standard LED strips that serve as daytime running lights are integrated in the two outer air intakes. Also painted in high-gloss black are the two louvres of the radiator grille. A new R-logo design appears in chrome on the right side of the grille. Standard Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering light illuminate the way through the night. On its sides, the Golf R is recognisable by side skirt extensions in body colour and mirror housings painted in high-gloss black.

The Golf R can be clearly identified as Golf's top model at the rear as well. The newly designed rear lights stands out along with the bumper with diffuser and centrally positioned tailpipes, R-logo and larger roof edge spoiler.

INTERIOR FEATURES OF THE GOLF R

The sixth generation Golf, with its high-end interior materials, could be mistaken for a car in the luxury segment. This obviously also applies to the Golf R; its power reserves alone put it into a league of its own.

A highlight of the interior is the newly designed "Top Sport seat system" with heated seats in front that have excellent ergonomic properties. The driver just sits down, adjusts the longitudinal and height positions of the seat, adjusts the steering wheel, buckles up, and is ready to go. The seat fits as though it was tailor-made for the driver.

All seams of the interior are in "Art Grey". This also includes the decorative seams of the multi-function three-spoke leather steering wheel. Perforated leather is used at the top and bottom of the steering wheel, ensuring maximum hand grip. The sides of the steering wheel with their ergonomic motorsport attributes are fully trimmed in leather. Spokes in fine black piano paint add an elegant aspect that finishes the sporty image. The centre steering wheel spoke bears the R-logo. The fascinating material contrast of piano paint and chrome conveys the passion for finesse and precision in every detail of the interior.

Also re-styled are the R gearshift knob, carpet floor mats with piping in "Art Grey", aluminium door tread plates with R-logo and the instruments with their blue pointers and a speedometer scale that reads up to 300 km/h. Stainless steel sport pedals and R-specific instrument and door accents in "Silver Lane" styling round out the custom features.

OVERVIEW OF STANDARD FEATURES

Exterior

"Talladega" 19-inch alloy wheels 235/35 R19 tyresBi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering light Brake callipers in black with R-logo Bumpers in motorsport look, painted body colour Door mirror housings in glossy black Dual tailpipes in the centre Radiator grille black with R-logo Rear lights in LED technology, smoked Rear spoiler in body colour Side skirt extensions in body colour Park Distance Control – Rear and Front

Interior

Chrome surround on rotary light switch, chrome accents on mirror adjustment and window lift switches Decorative inserts in "Silver Lane" aluminium on instrument panel and door trim panels Sports leather seats with 'R' emblemHand brake grip leather-trimmed with Art Grey decorative seams Leather-trimmed gearshift grip with aluminium accents and glossy black look Multi-function leather-trimmed steering wheel (3 spokes) with gear shift controls; glossy black accents, R-logo and Art Grey decorative seamsAluminium look sports pedals

Functional

"Plus" multi-function display 4-Motion (All-wheel drive )Door mirrors with passenger side mirror loweringHeadlight cleaning system Hill Hold ControlLED daytime running lights Rain sensor Sport chassisTyre pressure indicatorAutomatic climate control system ("Climatronic")"RCD 310" radio-CD system with MP3 player.

OPTIONAL FEATURES

Here are optional features that are available for the Golf R:

Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC)Rear Assist – rearview camera with Park Distance ControlRadio-CD player: RCD 510 with MP3, 6-CD ChangerRadio-CD player: RCD 510 DynAudio Excite Sound System Satellite Navigation SystemElectric sunroof Racing bucket seats in Vienna & Alcantara Leather

Retail prices (VAT and Emissions Tax included) – Effective1 April 2011

2.0 TSI 4Motion (188 kW) Manual                   R408 930
2.0 TSI 4Motion (188 kW) DSG                        R423 430

The Golf R comes standard with a 5 year/90 000km Service Plan, 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty. Service Interval is 15 000km.