IMAGE GALLERY OF THE GOLF R

WELL ROUNDED. PROBABLY the two words most often used to describe the last two generations of the Golf GTI. Although the benchmark was not always the quickest (Audi S3,) the most charismatic (Ford Focus ST) or the most engaging to drive (Opel Astra OPC), the GTI almost always emerged victorious in comparisons around the globe due to the breadth of its talents. It was the sum of its parts that made it so special.

VW went a step further and gave us an all-wheel drive, naturally aspirated V6 alternative in the R32. This was an equally ‘well rounded’ package, but in this instance due to the extra weight of its 4Motion system, it felt more stout than special compared to the agility of its front-wheel drive counterpart.

Now VW has launched a new R derivative, with a 2.0-litre turbocharged powerplant and the choice of either a six-speed manual or the original six-speed dual-clutch (DSG) auto transmission. We opted for the two-pedal version and headed to our test facility to see how the newcomer rated against the R32 and the GTI benchmark.

Exterior

It was surprising to see how the R polarised opinion among our testers. For most the understated demeanour was a classier counterpart to the boy racer crowd, while others argued that as an ‘R’ derivative it should look more of a beast than a bowtie, breathing aggression from every curve. Most would agree however that the R cuts a fairly handsome, if somewhat staid figure. The first design aspect one notices is the revised front bumper with its three gigantic air scoops, there to meet the cooling demands of the 188kW engine. Other things to set the R apart from its GTI siblings include ‘Talladega’ style alloy wheels, black R-logo brake callipers, gloss black air intake louvres and mirror housings, and colour-coded sideskirt extensions. LED daytime running lights complement the standard bi-xenons. From the rear, the R telltales are the redesigned tail lights, diffuser, centrally located exhaust exits and large roof edge spoiler. Not that subtle, then.

Interior

Step inside the R and you are greeted by a luxurious, premium cabin that’s typically German, notably VW. Small tactile touches abound from the perforated leather top and bottom of the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel to its piano black spokes and chrome R-logo. The contrast of gloss black, chrome and leather add elegance to the R’s sporty intent. Other model specific touches include the R-labelled gearshift knob, optional sports seats and aluminium door tread plates that together with stainless steel pedals further enhance the interior ambience. Niggles? Luggage space could be better. Fold the seats down though, and things improve if you don’t need to carry passengers in the rear.

Performance