Volkswagen has launched a new ‘20 Years’ anniversary edition of its legendary Golf R - and it’s the quickest R model we’ve ever seen.
The regular, all-wheel-drive Golf R hot hatch is no slouch to begin with. In standard form you enjoy 320 PS and a 0-62mph sprint time of 4.7 seconds.
The new ‘20 Years’ R variant, however, takes power up to 333 PS and takes the 0-62mph acceleration time down to 4.6 seconds.
The 20 Years model is also quicker around a track.
The anniversary edition clocked a time of 7:47.31 minute around the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife German race circuit - which is a good four seconds quicker than the normal Golf R.
Meanwhile VW says that thanks to a more rapid engine response and faster gear shifts, the Golf R 20 Years is also more accomplished on the road in ‘everyday situations’, particularly when it comes to overtaking manoeuvres.
You get, above and beyond the regular R, a much more extensive kit list as standard. That includes the VW ‘R-Performance’ package, a Driving Dynamics Manager and R-Performance Torque Vectoring.
As well as the regular ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ driving profiles, the special-edition model also comes as standard with the additional ‘Special’ and ‘Drift’ profiles.
A VW spokesperson reveals:
“For driving on the Nordschleife, the race driver chose the ‘Special’ driving profile, which was developed for this track. This profile gives the vehicle a set-up that meets the unique requirements of what is probably the most demanding race track in the world. This includes adjusting the shock absorbers to a more soft and comfortable setting due to the enormous loads at the maximum performance level when driving on such tracks.”
The 20 Years R sounds better, too, thanks to ‘optimised’ noise lower down the rev range and a ‘rougher’ audio experience in the cabin.
There are enhancements to the turbocharger, too, according to VW. Our spokesperson tells us:
“The preloaded turbocharger is also kept at a constant speed in overrun mode so that the engine can develop its power more quickly in subsequent acceleration. This process is supported by the continuously open throttle valve. When the driver takes their foot off the accelerator and then accelerates again, this allows faster build-up of the torque and noticeably improves the engine’s responsiveness.”
Of course, the Golf ‘R’ models began with the 3.2 litre, 241 PS ‘Golf R32’ model from back in 2002.
The current generation R is the Golf 8. The seventh gen was launched in 2013, and boasted power of 300 PS and a 0-62mph burst time of 4.9 seconds.
The Golf R has long gone toe-to-toe with the Honda Civic Type R.
Honda’s R hot hatch is also celebrating an important anniversary this month, having been launched 25 years ago back in 1997.
Enjoyed this? Read our latest news:
- Polestar 6 electric roadster heading for full production
- Track-focused Audi RS 4 Avant Competition launches
- Skoda Karoq wins top award
- Peugeot 2008 now better value than ever
- Select Manchester supports local football team
Where To Next?
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to our newsletter.
Looking for a great leasing deal? Check out our incredible range of special offers.
Read our latest reviews and find the right model for you.
Want to know more about leasing? Take a look at our comprehensive leasing guides.
Interested in everything motoring? Why not catch up on all the latest car leasing news.
