Volkswagen has revealed the more practical estate version of its flagship Golf R hot hatchback.
It’s the first and will be the only performance version of the Golf Estate, with the R packing a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine that makes 316bhp and 420Nm of torque. With a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and 4Motion all-wheel-drive, it means this tourer can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 4.7 seconds (just two tenths of a second more than the hatchback). It’s also capable of a top speed of 168mph with the optional R Performance package.
Like the hatchback, the estate gets special Nurburgring and Drift driving modes to maximise the driving thrills, while performance brakes are also fitted that fill the Golf R’s large standard-fit 19-inch alloy wheels.
Volkswagen hasn’t forgotten about practicality, though, with the Golf Estate not only being far roomier than the hatchback but also larger inside than its predecessor. There’s more rear headroom than before, while the boot has grown to 611 litres, or up to 1,642 litres if the rear seats are folded. That’s thanks to a wheelbase that’s 66mm longer than before, while the Golf R Estate is also permitted to tow for the first time, with the model able to tow a braked trailer of up to 1.9 tonnes.
To separate it from the standard Golf Estate, the R gets specific quad exhaust tips and a performance exhaust system, wider arches and sportier bumpers. It’s also available in the R-specific Lapiz Blue colour (pictured) along with Pure White and Deep Black Pearl Effect.
Inside, the Golf R Estate gets part-microfibre sports seats with integrated headrests, a sports steering wheel and specific displays on the large touchscreen and digital dial system that are fitted to all versions.
Enquire on a new Volkswagen Golf R Estate