Volkswagen has launched the 8th generation Golf R in Japan. The price is 6,398,000 yen – corresponding to BRL 252,000. The German model comes to the Japanese market to face two local sports cars: Honda Civic Type R , with a 300 hp engine and all-wheel drive. And the GR Corolla with more than 300 hp and also all-wheel drive. The Golf, however, adopts an all-wheel drive system with a 2.0-liter in-line 4-cylinder turbo gasoline engine that claims to be “the most powerful in the history of the Golf”, and a dual-clutch automatic transmission. Torque vectoring R is combined with the full-time four-wheel drive “4MOTION system” and controls torque distribution between the left and right rear wheels with two multi-plate clutches. Improves cornering performance.
And, despite being very sporty, the model brings a comfortable ride and the high quality of the interior. Vehicle Dynamics Manager is a system aimed at agile and precise handling. In conjunction with the new 4MOTION system, the electronically controlled differential lock “XDS” and the adaptive chassis control “DCC” (optional) are integrated and controlled.
Along with acceleration, the Golf R has high braking capabilities. An 18-inch brake system is used at the front. It is 1 inch larger than its predecessor and its stopping power has been improved. The interior features features such as fully automatic 3-zone air conditioning (independent adjustment of the driver and front passenger rear seats, with automatic air circulation function). The exterior features a wide range of special equipment such as a large aerodynamic bumper and side sills, a tail cutter that shines bright chrome on all four wheels, and large diameter tires in size 225/40R18 (inches up to 235/35R19 if the DCC option is selected).
The Golf R has the following dimensional specifications: Length x width x height = 4295 x 1790 x 1460 mm, wheelbase 2620 mm, vehicle weight 1540 kg, capacity for 5 passengers. The same goes for the interior. A small-diameter steering wheel with a thick grip diameter, R-specific sport seats with integrated headrests, blue upholstery and blue stitching. Still, it’s a surprisingly understated car. That’s what Volkswagen cars are all about.
The 2.0 Turbo engine delivers 320 hp @ 5350-6500 rpm, 420 Nm/2100-5350 rpm, coupled to a 7DSG transmission, 4WD traction system. The tires are 225/40R18, and it features “R Performance Torque Vectoring” and “Vehicle Dynamics Manager”.