BMW launched the M135 per week in the past and it’s already going through stiff competitors coming from the brand new Volkswagen Golf R. In contrast to Bavaria’s sizzling hatch, Wolfsburg’s compact efficiency mannequin has had its US visa authorized. In Europe, VW will proceed to promote a extra sensible wagon model for which the M division sadly doesn’t have a direct competitor.
With the mid-cycle replace, the Golf R depends on an uprated turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine massaged for barely extra energy. The four-cylinder TSI unit now produces an extra 14 hp, bringing the grand complete to 329 hp. Torque stays unchanged, at 420 Nm (310 lb-ft). Nevertheless, the pre-facelift mannequin was rated in the USA at a barely decrease 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). Particulars in regards to the US-spec 2025 Golf R have but to be launched.
How does the revised Golf R stack up towards the M135? BMW’s M Efficiency 1 Sequence has 296 hp in Europe and 312 hp in international locations with extra relaxed emissions laws. Both approach, it’s weaker than its home rival. Torque is all the time 400 Nm (295 lb-ft), which is as soon as once more lower than the VW. The Golf R used to come back with a guide within the US earlier than the facelift however not anymore. Going ahead, it’s going to be bought strictly with a seven-speed DSG. The M135 additionally has a dual-clutch automated with the identical variety of gears.
VW quotes a 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) dash of 4.6 seconds for the hatchback, making it 0.3s faster than the M135. The extra spacious wagon takes 4.8 seconds to finish the duty due to its barely larger curb weight. An non-obligatory Efficiency Bundle loosens up the highest pace limiter, unlocking 168 mph (270 km/h). The brand new BMW M135 maxes out at a decrease 155 mph (250 km/h), matching the usual Golf R.
The 2025 Golf R hatch and property are nonetheless camouflaged for some motive. Nevertheless, we do know the automobiles inherit the delicate styling updates introduced by the Golf Mk8.5 earlier this yr. VW provides an non-obligatory 19-inch solid wheel set, shaving off 20% of fats in comparison with the usual alloys. New for 2025 can also be a Black Version with darkish accents for a murdered-out look.
VW isn’t keen to point out the inside simply but. Nevertheless, we’ve realized the dashboard has been modified to accommodate an enlarged 12.9-inch touchscreen. Furthermore, the contact slider for the amount and temperature management is lastly illuminated. At an extra price, the Golf R will be configured with a head-up show. The totally digital 10.2-inch instrument cluster is commonplace.
Shell out more cash and VW will equip the brand new Golf R with an Akrapovič titanium exhaust system that has a deeper soundtrack than earlier than. Very like the usual setup, the upgraded {hardware} comes with controllable sound flaps. With the up to date mannequin, there’s now an possibility for superior matrix LED headlights with a 15% extra highly effective excessive beam.
The quickest manufacturing VW ever can be accessible to preorder in Europe this month to coincide with the Golf’s 50th anniversary. Its world rollout will comply with shortly. We is likely to be coping with one of many final updates for the R within the combustion-engine period for the reason that Golf Mk9 can be an EV. That’s offered VW doesn’t change its thoughts after so-so gross sales of electrical automobiles…
Supply: Volkswagen
