With the new Golf 8 to launch only later this year, the Golf ‘7.5’ R is still a suitable option to consider should you want to buy a potent hot hatch now.
When it comes to Volkswagen, they have a winning recipe when it comes to their Polo, Polo Vivo and Golf models; making them Volkswagen’s bread and butter models Volkswagen has managed to give the public what they want from these popular models, meeting specific needs and wants.
In South Africa, the Volkswagen Golf performance models have been more popular than their bottom and entry-level models. These performance models have significantly increased Volkswagen’s market share in the last five years, moving from 24% to 32.5% in the ‘A Hatch’ range of vehicles.1
Since the launch of the Volkswagen Golf 7 in South Africa in 2014, it has sold more than 36 000 units and over 4000 Golf R’s to date.1
What is the performance like on the Volkswagen Golf R?1
With the notorious 2.0-litre turbocharged engine under the bonnet, it produces more power now with a power output of 228kW and 400Nm of torque, making the Golf R the fastest to date. It is fitted with a 7-speed dual-automated gearbox (DSG) and is all-wheel drive. It does 0 to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 250km/h. The Golf R is on the heavier side when it comes to fuel-efficiency. It has a claimed fuel consumption of 7.2-litres/100km.
The Golf R has adaptive chassis control, making the car handle and grip to the road like a hand to a glove, giving confidence to the most inexperienced driver. The DSG gearbox selects gears smoothly making this sporty hot hatch still very practical and a great family, day to day car. The Golf R provides more than enough performance to keep any dad or mom happy while still providing enough space for the kids and luggage room in the boot.
Service plan and warranty1
The Golf R comes with a factory service plan of 5-years/90 000km and a warranty of 3-years/120 000km.
What will be new on the new Volkswagen Golf 8?2
The new Golf will be 29 mm longer, 10mm wider and 4 mm taller than its predecessor, but will still be based on the old wheelbase.
Volkswagen will be launching three new hybrid drivetrains, that is based on a turbo-petrol engine with a 48V electric drive system. The GTI, GTD and R variants will also be launched in 2020. The new Golf R will be given an updated version of the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, producing a power output of 238kW compared to its predecessor’s 228kW.
The engines will still be paired to a 7-speed dual-automated gearbox (DSG) with different models coming out in either front-wheel drive or the optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive variants.
With many more new features on the exterior and interior, we are sure the Golf 8 will remain one of Volkswagen’s top sellers in 2020, and we so look forward to its arrival. Look out for more car reviews and other articles that cover topics such as car insurance.
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