The third generation of the Volkswagen Golf R, the all-wheel drive hot hatch from the Golf family, made its debut in 2022. Like its predecessor, the GTI, the Golf R strives to combine thrilling driving experiences with the usefulness of a small hatchback vehicle. Even if this updated edition lacks a little inspiration, it mainly satisfies those requirements. The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R has a torque-vectoring AWD system that is improved for handling, a more potent turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and some technical interior updates. They go well with the changes to the inside and exterior styling.
Volkswagen Golf R Exterior
On the outside, The 2022 VW Golf R aesthetically distinguishes itself from the Golf GTI in the front thanks to an R-specific bumper with a splitter and side intakes that direct cooling air. The upper grille of the Golf R has a blue stripe with an illuminated LED strip on top of it. The strips that extend from the VW logo and the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) on the fender give the front of the car its iconic appearance. Regular LED headlights are also used to illuminate the road in addition to the LED light strip. The R insignia, which can be found on the right side of the grille, signifies international adherence to the VW R family.
The rear end has a brand-new quad-tipped exhaust system, a high-gloss black diffuser, and an R-specific bumper. Just below the VW symbol in the hatch’s center is the R logo. On both sides, LED taillight clusters are typical. Pure White, Deep Black Pearl, and Lapiz Blue Metallic are the three standout colors offered for the Golf R for the 2022 model year.
Volkswagen Golf R Interior
Stepping inside, The Volkswagen Golf R adopts the GTI’s new cabin style, which is sportier than that of the Golf from the previous generation. In both, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster is controlled by touch-sensitive controls on a thick-rimmed steering wheel. The Golf R has reinforced front seats with Nappa leather upholstery but lacks the GTI’s plaid seat inserts.
These unusual buckets have blue and carbon-look decorations on the side pieces, and the backrest has a blue “R” emblem. Other interior improvements include more carbon-look trim on the dashboard, ambient lighting with 30 color options, and stainless steel pedals. The new Golf R also features a comfortable back seat and a large cargo compartment.
Engine, power, and Transmission
Under the hood, The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R packs a 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged engine that generates 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This is an increase from the 288 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of the previous generation R. The engine is paired with either a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system comes standard with a rear differential that actively splits torque between the left and right rear wheels for better handling. The Golf R’s numerous drive modes (Comfort, Sport, Race, Special, Drift, and Individual) can be selected by pressing the “R” button on the steering wheel.
Infotainment and connectivity features
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R infotainment system is controlled via a 10.0-inch touchscreen in the dashboard’s center. Touch-sensitive sliders replace physical knobs and buttons as auxiliary controls. The system comes with a Harman/Kardon quality stereo in addition to the required charging ports. Popular features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are also available.
How much does Golf R cost?
If you choose the manual transmission, the basic price of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is $ 48,739. The base price is $50,139 for the variant with the automatic transmission.
