Volkswagen’s iconic Golf is back with a new addition to its range – the Golf 8 R. This hatchback is a performance derivative of the standard Golf 8 model, and it’s the most powerful one yet. The Golf 8 R will be available in South Africa from 25 April 2023.
The new Golf 8 R is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder EA 888 engine, which produces 235kW of power and 400Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, and its top speed is 250 km/h. This is made possible by its cutting-edge running gear and the most progressive all-wheel drive in its class. This combination of power and driving experience has set new benchmarks in the Golf model range.
What sets the Golf 8 R apart from its predecessors is the range of standard and optional features that are available. The standard features include mobile inductive charging, panoramic sunroof, keyless entry with safelock, ‘Discover Pro’ navigation system, wireless app-connect and voice control, 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels, Adaptive Chassis Control including driving profile selection, Light and Vision Package including light assist, and Nappa leather R sport seats. In addition, you have a choice of three exterior colours – Pure White, Lapiz Blue metallic, and Deep Black Pearl.
Optional features include IQ.Light LED Matrix headlights, Akrapovič R Performance exhaust, Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon sound system, Parallel Park Assist, Rear Assist with a rearview camera, Blind spot monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, Lane Assist and electronically folding side mirrors, Travel Assist with Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking System as well as the Black Performance Package (includes drift mode, an increased top speed of 270 km/h, and black 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels).
The Golf 8 R is priced at R912 800 (including VAT and emissions tax) and comes with a 3-year/120 000km warranty, 5-year/100 000km EasyDrive Maintenance Plan, and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is 15 000km.
