THE most satisfying solution to transfer a heap of substances to 100km/h within the shortest potential time is returning to a Volkswagen dealership close to you early subsequent 12 months with the launch of the Mk8 model of the Golf R wagon.
Arguably the most well liked long-roof small automobile available on the market – given solely Peugeot’s 308 and the Ford Focus wagon stay as rivals since Renault’s Megane and Subaru’s Levorg completed – returns with a whopping 611 litres of cargo room and can pack as much as 235kW/420Nm when it arrives.
Within the meantime, Volkswagen Australia has confirmed the return of its bigger Passat 206TSI R-Line wagon following delays associated to WLTP compliance testing, sharing the outgoing Golf R wagon’s engine – albeit in lower-output 206kW/350Nm tune – and unique Lapiz Blue hero color choice.
The brand new Taking pictures Brake model of Volkswagen’s Arteon passenger automobile flagship may even have the 206TSI R-Line package deal choice when it arrives within the fourth quarter.
Though the brand new Golf R wagon’s outputs should not but confirmed for the Australian market, the quoted figures are significantly up on the outgoing model that developed 213kW and 380Nm.
The engine is a tweaked model of the EA888 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder that in 180kW/370Nm guise does obligation underneath the bonnet of Volkswagen’s newest Golf GTI.
It’s heated to 235kW in its anticipated trim for Australia – good for a claimed 0-100km/h dash in 4.9 seconds – however there are already noises a few 245kW model.
Volkswagen has intentionally reeled within the launch of the Golf R to carry it alongside the discharge of two extra efficiency variations, the Tiguan R medium SUV and the T-Roc R compact crossover.
Pricing and ultimate specs are but to be introduced – and even hinted at – however Golf costs hiked about $3500 when the Mk8 was launched, doubtlessly giving the R wagon a touchdown worth of about $62,000 plus on-road prices.
The R will get solely a seven-speed dual-clutch (DSG) transmission, with the six-speed handbook but to be confirmed for this market.
There may even be a Efficiency Pack choice that features a “drift mode” and 19-inch (changing normal 18-inch) alloys plus a 20km/h prime velocity extension to 270km/h.
However one of the best information is it carries over all of the engine and chassis urge of the R hatchback that arrives in February, simply earlier than its wagon sibling.
The revamped MQB platform brings with it new tips for the Mk8, together with an improved 4Motion driveline that now has the power to separate torque between right- and left-side wheels, along with its normal crowd-pleasing artistry of shifting torque between the entrance and rear axles.
It additionally has a torque-vectoring rear differential and stiffer suspension for a firmer journey.
Golf’s sizzling wagon sits on an extended 2686mm wheelbase, up 66mm on the Mk7, and is 66mm longer general, contributing to the incoming variant’s 611-litre boot capability that’s up 22 litres on the outdated wagon, extending to 1642 litres with the rear seats folded. It’s roomier for second-row passengers as properly.
Because of the R’s bespoke suspension tune, it sits 20mm decrease than the common Golf wagon.
Sensible options lengthen to an electrical tailgate, buying hooks within the boot, baggage internet and a 12-volt socket, and it comes with a braked towing capability of 1900kg.
Externally, the R wagon is distinguished from different Golf wagons by its quad exhaust therapy, deeper aspect skirts and bolder bumper design.
Inside it’s much like different upmarket Mk8 variants with a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen and 10.25-inch driver show, plus sports activities seats in microfleece and material with R lettering on the built-in head restraints.
Security tools is highlighted by Volkswagen’s new IQ Drive that packages security in a semi-autonomous design.
An overriding characteristic is its intention to make sure the automobile stays in its lane, utilizing displays to assist the motive force and warn and alter to any discrepancies. IQ Drive makes use of an arsenal that features eight airbags, AEB, adaptive cruise management, lane help, driver fatigue warning and rear cross-traffic alert.
It would additionally assist the motive force in parking, lane altering and accident prevention. The wagon has already obtained a five-star crash ranking from EuroNCAP.
Volkswagen has offered solely 585 Golfs this 12 months because it finishes its Mk7.5 run and cranks up the brand new Mk8.
