Volkswagen Golf R Mk8 launched in Malaysia, priced at RM357,584

During the Malaysian launch event for the Golf R-Line & Golf GTI Mk8, Volkswagen surprised us by also launching the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R Mk8 in Malaysia, adding a third model to the Malaysian Golf Mk8 range.

Design and exterior

The all-new Golf R keeps its sporty look and features R emblems on the front and back of the vehicle. The rear is also flanked with a pair of tailpipes on either side, and it’s equipped with 19″ Adelaide alloy wheels.

Not only does it have blue brake calipers and a blue strip on the front of the vehicle, but it also has a light projection of the R logo when the driver opens or closes their door. The Golf R’s boot offers 381 litres of luggage space, which is seven litres more than the new GTI.

Under the hood

The all-new Golf R is powered by a 2.0TSI turbocharged engine and 7-speed DSG, boasting 320PS and 400Nm of torque. It has a top speed of 250km/h and can go from 0-100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, which is faster than the previous gen’s 4.9 seconds. It has a fuel tank capacity of 45 litres and has a rated fuel economy of 7.8litres per 100km.

It also has a new all-wheel drive system called 4MOTION with Performance Torque Vectoring. Not only can the system enable power to be distributed between the front and the rear, but it can also selectively distribute between the rear wheels, making the Golf R more agile when cornering. This is the first Volkswagen to be launched with the 4MOTION system.

The Golf R features a Vehicle Dynamics Manager system that takes care of things like electronic differential locks (XDS), dynamic chassis control (DCC), and progressive steering.

Interior and safety

The interior of the Golf R includes a Carbon Grey trim and front sport seats with integrated headrest and R logo in Nappa leather. In addition, the driver’s seat can be electrically adjusted and the steering wheel has a blue backlit R button that instantly activates ‘Race’ mode, which is another mode on top of ones like Comfort and Sport.

This model features a 10″ digital cockpit displaying output, power, torque distribution, charge pressure, lap timer and G-meter data in live view. There is also a 10″ Digital Infotainment System that offers navigation as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Producing the sound is its Harman Kardon 480-watt audio system with 10 speakers.

In terms of safety features, the Golf R has six airbags, side assist with rear cross traffic alert, a rear view camera, automatic post-collision braking system, Driver alert system, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and an Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS). Just like the other new Golf models, the Golf R does not feature advanced safety features such as autonomous emergency braking or lane-keeping assist.

Pricing and availability

The Volkswagen Golf R Mk8 is available in three colours: Lapiz Blue, Deep Black and Pure White. Unlike the other models in the new Golf range, the Golf R is not locally assembled. It’s imported and has an on-the-road price of RM357,584.85 without insurance. Just like the other models in the range, it comes with three years of free maintenance, five years of unlimited mileage warranty and five years of roadside assistance.

Limited units are available, so place a booking at any authorised Volkswagen dealerships nationwide or via their website if you are interested.