Overview
Long the halo model residing atop the compact Golf lineup, the Golf R takes the traditional hot-hatch formula of the VW Golf GTI and ramps it up with an infusion of power and technology. Specifically, its performance boost comes from a muscled-up, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder teamed with all-wheel drive, a torque-vectoring rear differential, standard adaptive suspension, and an optional drift mode that conspire to provide levels of performance-driving enjoyment far beyond that of the average hatchback. Yet the Golf R still offers the same logical, space-efficient, four-door-and-cargo-hold formula that's kept the standard Golf on the map worldwide for 50 years. (Sadly, only the GTI and R versions of the Golf are currently sold in the U.S.) Speaking of which, Volkswagen is in the midst of revamping the Golf lineup as part of that model's golden Anniversary, and the 2025 Golf R gets some mild updates including an additional 13 horsepower, bringing the turbo 2.0-liter's output to 328 ponies, to accompany the styling tweaks we uncovered earlier. Rest assured; the 2025 Volkswagen Golf R is fully equipped to provide the same visceral thrills in a practical box that it built its legacy on. Volkswagen says it should begin arriving in dealers in early 2025.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Now rated at 328 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, the 2025 Golf R sees a boost of 13 horsepower and 15 pound-feet. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is now the sole gearbox option. The standard 4Motion all-wheel-drive system features a rear differential that can actively distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels for improved handling. The Golf R's selectable drive modes (Comfort, Sport, Race, Special, Drift, and Individual) are joined by a new Eco mode for 2025. Additional updates include an approximately 100 rpm higher shift point for Comfort mode, and the stop/start and costing functions are disabled in Sport mode. Race mode preconditions the turbo for quick spool-up. Combined with the power bump, the 2025 Golf R should put a slight edge on its already quick power delivery. Previous Golf R models impressed us with their stellar handling characteristics, and the adaptive suspension and fully defeatable stability control promise to maintain a high standard.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Interior updates include updated premium sport seats with fresh black-blue color patterns highlighted with the obligatory "R" logo near the top of the backrests. Black Nappa leather seats are available and blend in carbon-look elements, and the "R" logo. The leather sport steering wheel is accented with blue stitching, a blue wheel-center mark at the six o'clock position, and an easy access "R" button to expedite access to the drive mode menu. Specific R features include larger DSG paddles and hard buttons rather than hard-to-use touch-sensitive sliders. Additional exclusive touches include R-specific door side trims, floor mats with the R logo, and brushed stainless-steel pedal caps and footrest, which are part of the extensive standard equipment along with a black headliner. The Golf's interior materials and design have been updated over the years, but the basic five-passenger-and-cargo format has remained set in stone for decades because it works.

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