Let us introduce you to the Golf R Boasting 292 turbocharged horsepower with 4MOTION® all-wheel drive, this limited availability, track-inspired ultimate performer is powerful1  — and fun.

How much fun? Here are some numbers:

4.9

The time in seconds for the Golf R to rush from zero to 60 mph — and it has a top track speed of 155 mph.1

8:15

As in eight minutes and 15 seconds. That’s the time it took a professionally-driven Golf R to power around the 12.9-mile Nürburgring, a demanding and difficult racing circuit in Germany.2

292

The horsepower of the 2015 Golf R 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI® engine. That’s an impressive 36 hp more than the 2012 Golf R model. Just as impressive is the big increase in torque. With 280 lb-ft, there’s an additional 37 lb-ft, which really adds to the driving fun.

6

Either a 6-speed DSG® available dual-clutch automatic transmission or choose the 6-speed manual transmission. The manual is still the ultimate connection a driver has with the car. But the DSG with launch control gives a faster 0 to 60 mph time — 4.9 seconds compared with 5.3 for the manual. Either way, the Golf R is a real thrill to drive.3

4

The number of choices for the Golf R optional DCC® adaptive damping system: Comfort, Normal, Race, and Individual. In Comfort, the damping is more relaxed for comfortable, long-distance driving. In Race mode the suspension firms up, with quicker shifting from the DSG® transmission; more sporty-steering assist and throttle response; a sportier engine sound; and faster-reacting adaptive headlights. Individual mode allows the driver to adjust individual parameters, such as combining a Comfort mode suspension setting with the sportier Race mode steering feel.

4

As in 4MOTION® all-wheel drive. This really sets the Golf R apart. It helps sharpen the handling and increase traction by seamlessly and instantaneously directing torque between the front and rear wheels.

4

The quartet of exhaust tips is part of the head-turning design package that sets the Golf R apart. This chrome quad peeks out from the rear valance, and the package includes distinctive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, special R badging, standard 18-inch or optional 19-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights in a unique dual-U design that make the car immediately recognizable on the road. It’s a very sophisticated yet purposeful look.

$39,375

The price of the well-equipped Golf R with DSG® automatic transmission. Talk about a bang for your buck.4

A Timeline of the Volkswagen Golf R in the U.S.

2004

The Mighty Volkswagen R32

The original and much-loved Volkswagen R32 two-door hatchback came to the United States in 2004, sporting a strong 240-hp 3.2-liter VR6, a six-speed manual transmission, and 4MOTION® all-wheel drive. Just 5,000 were available, which quickly led to the car being revered within enthusiast circles.

2008

Volkswagen R32 with DSG

This time the narrow-angle VR6® engine could crank out 250 hp and came with a six-speed automated dual-clutch DSG® manual transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Again, this R32 was offered only for a single year, with production limited to just 5,000.

2012

More HP for the Golf

Based on the Mk6 Golf, the new, highly anticipated Golf R 4MOTION® finally went on sale in the United States. In place of the VR6 engine, Volkswagen adapted the GTI 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder to deliver 256 hp. At the request of enthusiasts, a six-speed manual transmission was the only choice, though this Golf R was available as either a two-door or a four-door hatch.

2015

Golf R Power and Sophistication

The Golf R features a 292-hp turbocharged and direct-injection 2.0-liter four-cylinder.