2022 Volkswagen Golf R Features and Specs

Get ready for the hatchback revolution, led by the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R. The R-rated Golf was born from the MK8 Golf GTI, but this model has a more powerful turbocharged engine and an all-wheel-drive system that features a drift mode. The Golf R continues to make headlines and turn heads as it races by.

This high-performance hatchback doesn’t have as much glitz to it as other cars in its class but brings a sophisticated, sleek style. While derived from the GTI, Volkswagen added exclusive equipment and low-key design details to the 2022 Golf R that underscore the differences.

The Golf R Returns

Image via Flickr by Rutger van der Maar

The Golf R hasn’t seen production since the 2019 model year, which begs – what changed? Volkswagen has plans to stop selling the Golf hatchback and station wagon in America. As a result, only the Golf GTI and Golf R will remain. It shouldn’t surprise Golf lovers, as they cherish these two vehicles most. Volkswagen will ride the hot hand with these two hot hatchbacks.

Trim Levels, Interior Colors, and Pricing

You have very little to choose from as the Golf R only comes in one trim. One crucial decision is whether you want to keep the standard six-speed manual transmission or opt for the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The base MSRP starts at $44,090, and the automatic transmission only adds around $800 to the price. You do have some cool exterior colors to choose from, such as Lapiz Blue Metallic, Pure White, and Deep Black Pearl.

Performance Engineering

Volkswagen opted for a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to the six-speed manual transmission. As a result, this powertrain puts out an impressive 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That’s way up over the 2019 model’s 288 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque.

Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system comes standard and features a drift mode that actively distributes torque between the rear wheels for better handling. You also get selectable drive modes to tailor your Golf R systems to driving conditions and your mood. Opt for Comfort mode and enjoy the smooth ride, or dial in your thrills by selecting Race mode.

Every Golf R utilizes a sport exhaust system, larger front disc brakes than previous generations, and a variable-ratio steering system for enhanced control. In addition, the Golf R rolls on stylish 19-inch wheels wrapped in performance tires. This hatchback impresses the track, clocking a zero to 60 mph time in only 3.9 seconds.

With the automatic seven-speed, the Golf R gets ratings of 23 mpg driving around the city and 30 mpg on the freeway. Unfortunately, the manual transmission loses a few mpg, coming in at 20 and 28, respectively.

Comfort and Convenience Features

The Golf R most closely resembles the GTI from the inside, although with sportier design cues than previous generations. Touch-sensitive steering-wheel-mounted controls operate the 10.2-inch digital information cluster that you can configure to show your preferred vehicle dynamics. You get bolstered sports seats in premium Nappa leather with blue and carbon accents and the R logo stitched on the backrest. The leather-wrapped steering wheel heats for additional comfort.

The front seats heat and ventilate for maximum comfort, and the rear seat heats as well. Interior ambient lighting offers 30 colors to set the proper mood, and stainless steel sport pedals and carbon trim on the dashboard further set the tone. The 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat has three memory positions to recall personal comfort preferences.

In-Vehicle Technology

All your in-vehicle tech runs through the 10-inch interactive display in the center stack. Instead of control buttons, the display screen features touch-sensitive sliders. Of course, you have multiple charging and data ports, plus a Harman Kardon premium audio system. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth technology come standard. These systems allow you to sync your smartphone to access your favorite apps, get navigation information, and be more hands-free using simple voice commands.

Keyless entry, push-button start, wireless charging, and the VW Car-Net Wi-Fi hot spot highlight the additional technology features you’ll love. You can also download the myVW app to unlock remote operations.

Driver-Assist Technology

Every Golf R comes with a suite of driver-assist systems designed to enhance your Streetsboro commute while keeping you safer. These systems use radar and cameras to scan your Golf R’s surroundings. When a system detects a possible hazard, you get visual and audio alerts. In some cases, these systems will engage emergency brake support or corrective steering to help you avoid a potential accident.

The suite includes the forward-collision warning that uses radar to scan the way ahead. If you fail to react to the system warnings, your Golf R automatically engages the automatic emergency braking system to mitigate a potential collision.

A lane-departure warning system alerts you to unintentional drifts. If you don’t respond to the alerts, the system engages lane-keeping assist. In addition, the LKA provides gentle steering input to bring you back into your lane.

Now, you get adaptive cruise control. This system takes standard cruise control to the next level by keeping you at a preset speed and distance from the car ahead while driving in traffic. It features a semi-autonomous driving mode that automatically slows your Golf R down as traffic slows and returns you to your presets when the way forward clears.

Warranty Coverage

Volkswagen’s warranty coverage ranks near the top in the industry. You get a Limited Warranty that covers you for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. In addition, you have a Powertrain Warranty that also provides four years or 50,000 miles of protection. Perhaps the best coverage from Volkswagen is the Complimentary Maintenance Program. We provide all your routine maintenance free for two years or 20,000 miles.

Hatchback enthusiasts eagerly await the 2022 arrival of the Golf R, and so do we. We expect inventory to move quickly, so we recommend you reserve your Golf R today by contacting us. One of our friendly, professional team members will coordinate the transaction and alert you when your Golf R arrives. If you prefer to wait and see for yourself how the Golf R performs under your direction, no problem. We can schedule a test drive the moment the vehicle arrives on our Classic Drive lot.