VW Golf R at 2009 Frankfurt motor show

By Ben Barry

First Official Pictures

15 September 2009 10:30

We’ve seen it lapping the Nürburgring disguised as a 2.0-litre TDI, but at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show Volkwagen officially revealed the fastest ever production Golf: the Golf R. And it’s coming soon! British dealers will take orders in October, with the first owners snaffling the keys in January 2010.

Actually, no. The Mk4 and 5 range-toppers were both badged R32 on account of their 3.2-litre V6 engines. The Mk6 iteration loses two cylinders and 1200cc to become a 2.0-litre four pot, and VW presumably didn’t see any benefit in bringing our attention to the smaller engine – hence the R-only branding.

But fear not, it’s not only leaner and cleaner than its predecessor, but quicker too.

The Top Trumps stats are as follows: 267bhp, 258lb ft, 0-62mph in 5.5sec and a top whack limited to 155mph. The old R32 trails with 246bhp, 236lb ft, 6.3sec and, you guessed it, 155mph.

The four-pot is 35kg lighter than the old six-pot to the benefit of agility, and much more efficient: the manual does 33.2mpg and emits 199g/km, the DSG 33.6mpg and 195g/km. That compares with 26mpg and 257g/km for a manual R32.

Yes, the familiar Haldex system is retained and there are, once again, three- or five-door bodystyles to choose from. The rest of the upgrades over the GTI are familiar too: more aggressive front and rear bumpers, a larger rear spoiler, 20mm lower suspension, standard 18s or optional 19s, GTI-spec seats upgraded with cloth centres and Alcantara bolsters (leather is optional, Recaro buckets around £2k extra) and double barrel tailpipes. There are also LED running lights up front, LED taillights and gloss black highlights.

Prices are yet to be finalised, but expect to pay £27-28k with a £1300 premium for the DSG six-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

By Ben Barry