Volkswagen is offering its European clients the chance to drive a fast wagon by launching the new Golf R Variant or Estate, depending on the market where it is sold.
The inside of the R Estate benefits greatly from the Golf Estate‘s 66 mm (2.6 inch) larger wheelbase when compared to the Golf. Passengers in the back, in particular, benefit from the generous proportions: Maximum legroom increases from 903 mm (35.5 inches) to 941 mm (37 inches). The vehicle has a baggage compartment volume of 611 litres, which may be increased to 1,642 litres if loaded to the roof with the second row of seats folded down. For the first time, the Golf R Estate is available with an optional ball coupling, allowing for a maximum trailer weight (braked) of up to 1.9 tonnes and a drawbar load of 80 kilograms.
The strong appearance of the new Golf R Estate is dominated by R-typical emblems such as the front bumper with splitter and side wings as air deflectors. The dramatic broader side members in the body colour capture the attention from the side. The R-specific rear bumper with the diffuser painted in high gloss black is completely new, as is the sports exhaust system constructed to Volkswagen R requirements and featuring two chrome-plated twin tailpipes. There are three colour options available: the R-typical Lapiz Blue Metallic, Pure White, and Deep Black Pearl Effect.
The powerful estate car comes with two extra driving modes as part of the optional R Performance package. All essential drive system settings have been adjusted for difficult race circuits such as the Nordschleife in the ‘Special’ profile. Away from public roads, the driving profile ‘Drift’ introduces a completely new level of driving characteristics, making drifting considerably safer and more enjoyable.
The four driving profiles are included as standard: Comfort, Sport, Race, and Individual. Drivers may modify the ESC to their needs by pressing a button and selecting one of two options. For all driving scenarios, ESC may also be turned off altogether (ESC off mode). In an emergency, however, the Autonomous Emergency Braking and Swerve Support restart the entire ESC system.
In its fourth development stage, the EA888 product line’s 1,984 cc four-cylinder turbocharged engine currently produces 235 kW (320 PS). This is a 14 kW (20 PS) increase over its predecessor. The maximum torque has risen to 420 Nm from 400 Nm. This is accessible at engine speeds as low as 2,100 rpm and remains consistent at this high level up to 5,350 rpm.
On the front axle, a new braking system with 18-inch brake discs has been installed. This translates to a one-inch (25.4-millimetre) bigger size than the predecessor. The new brake is constructed with pin discs and an aluminium brake pot, which saves weight by 600 grams on each side. The electromechanical brake servo has a speed-dependent map that ensures accurate brake control.
The new Golf R Estate comes standard with a new multifunction sports leather steering wheel and premium sports seats in the front, among other things. The driver’s controls have been almost completely redesigned in comparison to those of its predecessor. The new Infotainment system MIB3, like with other Volkswagens, enables connectivity.
The new Golf R Estate is available for purchase in Germany and Europe. Prices begin at EUR 51,585 ($60,900 USD).
