Volkswagen introduces the 2022 Golf R

Volkswagen has unveiled the latest generation of the new Golf R. The car boasts 316bhp and 420Nm of torque. Equipped with an all-wheel drive system, the new Golf R can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds, and on to a top speed of 250km/h.

The new Golf R makes use of a newly developed torque vectoring all-wheel drive system and a Vehicle Dynamics Manager. The all-wheel drive system has selective wheel torque control on the rear axle - the new rear differential distributes the power between the front and rear axles, and also between the two rear wheels.

This makes it possible to significantly increase the agility of the Golf R, particularly when cornering. Thanks to this close integration of different systems, the new Golf R offers optimal traction, neutral handling with the utmost level of precision, and maximum agility and driving pleasure.

The exterior design includes a new front bumper and R-specific air intake grilles. Twin exhaust pipes come as standard on the sport exhaust system, while a roof spoiler ensures the necessary level of downforce for the rear axle.

Like the eighth-generation Golf it is based upon, the Golf R is a five-door model. The distinctive features of the Golf R's side design include 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels paired performance tyres, a 20mm lower stance than the standard Golf, and blue brake calipers with an R logo behind the front wheels.

Three different colours are available: Lapiz Blue Metallic, Pure White or Deep Black Pearl Effect.

The new Golf R has also digitalised many of its displays and controls. This has enabled the graphics to be tailored to the new Golf R in the standard Discover Pro infotainment system and the Digital Cockpit configurable instrument panel.

The interior equipment in the Golf R has also been customised and enhanced. The driver and front passenger sit on sport seats with Nappa leather seating surfaces that feature carbon-look elements with blue accents in the side sections, as well as a blue R logo in the backrest.

The heated and multifunction leather sport steering wheel has also been given a specific design, with DSG paddles, blue contrast stitching, and an R button for direct selection of the various driving profiles. A more forceful press of the R button also activates Race profile directly.

The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine in the new Golf R is currently the most powerful EA888 powerplant. This enhanced fourth-generation design (evo4) delivers 316bhp and 420Nm of torque, available from just 2,100rpm and remaining constant at this high level up to speeds of 5,350rpm.

The engine also features variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust cams, with variable valve lift on the exhaust side. The new Golf R comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The suspension has been tuned specifically for the Golf R, starting with an 20mm lower ride height than the standard Golf. The car features a strut-type front and a multi-link rear suspension.

To ensure confident braking from high speed, the Golf R has been equipped with an improved braking system, with the front discs now at 358mm x 33mm. The front calipers have two pistons, and are made of aluminium that reduce mass by 60% per side.