280ps and 4WD system combination

The pinnacle of the Golf series, bearing the R name, the Volkswagen Golf R" (¥5.1 million) has arrived. Launched by Volkswagen Group Japan on February 20, 2014, the new model boasts 280ps of high power, a 25 horsepower increase over its predecessor, combined with a 4WD system.

The Golf R is a special model with a chassis, suspension, engine, and drivetrain all tuned exclusively for it. Its sub-name, evoking the initials of racing, is explained as originating from Volkswagen R GmbH., responsible for developing special models. It achieves a balance of driving enjoyment, unique interior and exterior design, high safety, and environmental compatibility at a high level.



The new Golf Rthe 7th-generation Golf seriesis built on the new-generation platform known asMQB. Simply put, it combines a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine with a turbocharger and a 4WD system using a multi-plate wet clutch. The engine, as Volkswagen (hereafter VW) explains, "has undergone tuning in many areas comparable to motorsport engines," indicating thorough tuning for high power.

The cylinder head, including the exhaust valves, valve seats, and valve springs, as well as the pistons, high-pressure injectors, and turbocharger, have all been newly designed or modified. As a result, while the displacement remains the same, the maximum output has increased by 24ps to 280ps, and the maximum torque has increased by 50Nm to 380Nm compared to the previous generation.

In terms of fuel efficiency, it incorporates the Start/Stop system, an idling stop mechanism, and BlueMotion Technology, which includes a brake energy regeneration system. VW states that this has improved fuel efficiency from 12.4 km/l (10-15 mode) in the previous generation to 14.4 km/l (JC08 mode). As the latter is a more realistic measurement method, the fuel efficiency improvement is likely even greater than the numbers suggest.

Everything is under the driver's control

The four-wheel-drive system, inheriting the name "4MOTION," uses the fifth generation of Haldex. It distributes torque to the front and rear wheels by controlling the engagement pressure of the multi-plate clutch via an electro-hydraulic control oil pump.

While it drives only the front wheels during low-load conditions such as highway cruising to reduce fuel consumption, the integrated driving status recognition system in the control unit is always prepared to optimize front-rear torque distribution by analyzing wheel speed, steering angle, and other factors.

It determines how much power to drive the rear wheels based on the accelerator pedal input during acceleration, and instantly varies the torque distribution between the left and right wheels to prevent the vehicle from understeering or oversteering through corners. These are also optimally controlled by computer.



Features such as the Electronic Differential Lock (EDS) and XDS, which brakes the inner wheel during high-speed cornering, work to constantly distribute optimal power to all four wheels, front and rear, left and right. As a result, the powerful performance expected from 280ps can be enjoyed with a natural driving feel.

From the moment you settle into the comfortable seats, designed by the aforementioned Volkswagen R GmbH., and start driving, the Golf R's appeal strikes you instantly, like lightning, reaching your heart through the sensory organs of your hands and feet.

The engine, which begins generating maximum torque of 380Nm from 1,800rpm, powerfully propels the car. At that moment, the steering wheel, set slightly heavier, transmits road conditions with delicate sensitivity. The exhilarating feeling that everything is under the driver's control washes over you.

DCC standard equipment on Japanese specifications

The interior of the new Golf R gives a more subdued impression than its predecessor. The previous generation featured bucket seats reminiscent of racing cars and visual cues hinting at its racing heritage.

In contrast, the new model has leather-upholstered seats with thick cushioning, and only the "R" alphabet is subtly embossed on the backrest.

While this might be slightly anticlimactic, its character has not become milder, as discussed earlier.



Five modes are available: "Eco," "Normal," "Individual," "Comfort," and the R-exclusive "Race." The Race mode stiffens the dampers and sharpens engine response and DSG shift points.

It's best to stay in Race mode

What impressed me most about the Golf R was the excellence of the Race mode. Switching modes requires a somewhat cumbersome two-step process: pressing a button (difficult to see from the driver's seat, which is a drawback) to bring up the mode selection screen on the monitor, and then selecting from there. However, when switching from Normal to Race, the gears shift down, and the system attempts to maintain engine speeds that deliver maximum torque.

This Race mode sharpens acceleration, reduces body roll in corners, and is ideal for spirited driving. Yet, it doesn't compromise ride comfort, making it perfectly suitable for city driving as well.

While I understand the appeal of the Eco mode, which limits engine, air conditioning, and other auxiliary systems for fuel efficiency, if you want to fully enjoy the Golf R's direct handling, I believe it's best to simply stay in Race mode without fussing over mode changes.



Another point worth highlighting is the highly effective brakes. The brake piston diameter is 60mm for the front and 42mm for the rear, with brake discs measuring 340mm x 30mm (front) and 310mm x 22mm (rear). They respond delicately to pedal pressure. This alone makes the Golf R feel exceptionally valuable.

While the Golf traditionally features the sporty "GTI" model, for pure driving enjoyment, the Golf R is the ultimate choice. Though not widely known in Japan, the Golf R encapsulates another facet of Volkswagen's strength, stemming from its deep involvement in motorsports like WRC. While more expensive than the GTI (¥3.69 million), it is worth the investment.



In its near-perfect all-around capability, it felt comparable to the Audi "S3" (¥5.44 million). The choice between them likely comes down to your budget and personal taste.

Volkswagen Golf R
Body | Length 4,275 x Width 1,800 x Height 1,465 mm
Engine | 1,984 cc Inline 4-cylinder Turbo
Max Output | 206 kW (280 ps) / 5,100-6,500 rpm
Max Torque | 380 Nm (38.7 kgm) / 1,800-5,100 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed Automatic (DSG)
Drivetrain | 4WD
Suspension Front | MacPherson Strut
Suspension Rear | Multi-link
Tires Front/Rear | 225/40R18
Brakes Front | Ventilated Disc φ340 mm x 30 mm
Brakes Rear | Ventilated Disc φ310 mm x 22 mm
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 14.4 km/ℓ
Steering Position | Right
Price | ¥5.1 million

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