As if the current, limited-run Golf R needed to be any better, Volkswagen will have the North American debut for its 2015 Golf R at the Detroit auto show.
The refreshed hot hatch will be the most powerful Golf variant ever to hit North America. The tweaked 2.0L turbo four-cylinder will push an estimated 290 horsepower (up from the current R’s 256 hp) and 280 pound-feet of torque (up from 243), all while being more fuel efficient. VW estimates the run from zero to 100 km/h will take 4.9 seconds with the automatic (yes, it is now available with an automatic) and 5.3 seconds with the manual transmission.
Indeed, one of the biggest changes is that the all-wheel-drive Golf R will come with a standard six-speed manual transmission and an optional six-speed DSG automatic with paddle shifters. The Golf R was previously only available with a manual transmission.
2015 Volkswagen Golf R
Handout, Volkswagen
The 2015 Golf R takes on the new styling cues introduced on the Mk7 Golf, but adds more aggressive bumpers, side skirts, and exclusive 18-inch wheels. Bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights will be standard along with a quad exhaust system with chrome tips. The R will continue to be available in North America as a four-door only.
Other performance enhancements include a new sport suspension, a new variable-ratio steering system, and a new stability control system that can be turned off for silly hooligan antics track driving. An optional dynamic chassis control system will also be available with three driving modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport. An Individual mode can also be configured and a Race mode has been specially pre-programmed by VW engineers.
The refreshed 2015 Volkswagen Golf R will be available in North America in the first quarter of 2015.
2015 Volkswagen Golf R
Handout, Volkswagen
