Volkswagen SA has officially opened sales of the Golf 8 R today. The much-anticipated launch was expected to take place at the end of 2022 but several issues delayed local introduction by some months.
Production constraints and parts shortages severely derailed our launch plans, but we are excited to finally extend the performance range in South Africa with the introduction of the new Golf 8 R. The Golf 8 R joins the Golf GTI and the Tiguan R as Volkswagen’s performance derivatives in the South African market said Steffen Knapp, Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand.
The first Golf R launched in South Africa took place in 2007 and has since sold close to 6,000 units. Now in its eighth generation, the Golf R’s drive technology is the best it’s ever been with years of experience and enhancements driving the way.
Engine
The Golf 8 R is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder EA 888 engine. It now pushes out 235 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque. The Golf 8 R sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds while top speed is limited to 250 km/h. The engine is paired to a quick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and equipped with a new 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. VW claims a fuel consumption of 7.8 l/100km.
Standard features in the Volkswagen Golf 8 R
- Mobile inductive charging
- Panoramic sunroof
- Keyless entry with safe lock
- ‘Discover Pro’ Navigation System
- Wireless App-Connect and Voice Control
- 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels
- Adaptive Chassis Control including driving profile selection
- Light and Vision Package including light assist
- Nappa leather R sport seats
- Choice of three exterior colours (Pure White, Lapiz Blue metallic, and Deep Black Pearl)
Optional extras available for the Golf 8 R
If you’re wondering what additional things you can add to your Golf 8 R, at an extra cost, of course, here are some systems to consider:
- IQ.Light LED Matrix headlights
- Akrapovič R Performance exhaust
- Head-Up Display
- Harman Kardon sound system
- Parallel Park Assist
- Rear Assist with a rear-view camera
- Blind spot monitor with Rear Traffic Alert
- Lane Assist and electronically folding side mirrors
- Travel Assist with Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist
- Autonomous Emergency Braking System
- Black Performance Package (includes drift mode, an increased top speed of 270 km/h, and black 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels)
Price
Golf R 2.0 TSI 235kW DSG® - R912 800
The Golf 8 R also comes standard with a 3-year/120 000km Warranty, a 5-year/100 000km EasyDrive Maintenance Plan and a 12-year Anti-corrosion Warranty. Service intervals take place at every 15,000 km.