The Volkswagen Golf R is in line for a power boost.
Volkswagen has confirmed the Golf R range will in 2023 gain the 245kW and 420Nm engine tune that features in the Golf R 20 Years special edition.
In the case of the Golf R hatchback offered in Australia, that represents a boost of 10kW and 20Nm – the hatch is currently offered with a 2.0-litre turbo engine making 235kW and 400Nm, down 20Nm on what’s offered in Europe.
Golf R wagon, hatchback
The Golf R wagon in Australia packs the full 420Nm punch already, but will also pick up an extra 10kW with the update.
Volkswagen hasn’t confirmed exactly when the more powerful Golf R will arrive, but Michelle Rowney, Volkswagen Australia product and services manager, said timing is now looking “better than what we anticipated”.
“A month ago if you had’ve asked me it would have been second half of next year… but now it looks like we will be able to get something sooner,” Ms Rowney said.
Golf R 20 Years, Golf R32
Although the powered-up mainstream model might be on track for an early arrival, the Golf R 20 Years special has been delayed.
Initially on track to touch down during the third quarter of 2022, the R 20 Years is now expected to arrive around March or April 2023, as Volkswagen prioritises production of existing Australian orders for the regular car.
The Golf R 20 Years packs a 245kW and 420Nm engine, and features special touches including an Akrapovic exhaust to celebrate two decades since the Golf R32 debuted.
Volkswagen claims the Golf R 20 Years can do the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.6 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds faster than the regular Golf R hatch.
Engine responsiveness has been improved by turbocharger preloading and an open throttle valve in overrun phases, meaning the turbos spool before you accelerate and the throttle stays open for longer.
Volkswagen has added another feature which allows owners to start their Golf R 20 Years at engine speeds of up to 2500rpm.
The transmission and engine have been retuned to deliver a slightly different feel to that of the standard car.
MORE: Everything Volkswagen Golf
