Preview: The next VW Golf R in Full Glory and with 296 HP

We knew that the Mk7 generation of the VW Golf R is coming, and now we know what it will look like.  Volkswagen also released some technical data on the next hottest of hot hatches.  296 is one important number to remember as this is the horsepower level of the next R.  The car uses the EA888 generation of the venerable 2.0-liter four cylinder turbocharged engine to produce 296 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.  As always, maximum torque is there low and wide (1,800 – 5,500 rpms).  The Mk7 Golf R builds on the formula introduced with the current Mk6 model.  It uses the fifth installment of the VW Haldex coupling 4MOTION all wheel drive system to deliver the power of the high-strung turbo four.  This powerful little motor will also see duty in the next Audi S3 and have four more horses.

The increased power means increased acceleration performance.  Volkswagen claims 5.3 seconds for 0-62 mph run with the 6-speed manual and a more blistering 4.9 seconds with the DSG automated transmission.  This R is also mindful of the times and is more fuel efficient (18% more efficient).  European cycle sees the Mk7 MPG improve to 33 MPG for 28 MPG in the current generation.  The DSG is even better with a claimed 34 MPG on the euro cycle.  Nice!

The highly sophisticated Haldex 4MOTION system deserves a lot of praise in the efficiency equation.  It allows to the rear axle to be completely decouples under light load or when coasting.  The highly evolved computer system calculated when the rear wheels need to be engaged and can do so to varying degree in a fraction of a second by activating the clutches via an electro-hydraulic oil pump.  In fact, “nearly 100%” of power can be sent to the rear wheels.  It also has EDS and XDS+.  Lots of acronyms, but the bottom line is that this all wheel drive system can also vary torque from side-to-side and also is integrated into the braking system to help eliminate understeer.  Amazing engineering achievement!

Golf R fans will rejoice when they find out that the new ESC stability control system can be completely turned off.  Yep, aftermarket parts and labor is no longer required.  The Mk7 Golf R stability system can be turned into Sport mode by hitting the button once. This is a more aggressive setting for learning a race track, for example.  If you are a great driver and know the track well – hold the button for more than three seconds, and the ESC is all the way off.  The car might even do a little four wheel burn out…  There is also the dynamic chassis control DCC system.  Volkswagen press release is a bit confusing when it states that there are a total of three, four, or five selectable driving modes.  They might be: “Eco”, “Comfort”, “Normal”, “Individual”, and “Race”.  Just know that each mode was specifically developed for the R, and that you mix and match the various settings in the Individual mode.  It’s OK if you do not understand all the acronyms, just play with the settings and see what you like best.

The new R sits about 0.2 in lower than the Mk7 GTI.  It has sport suspension and larger brakes (13.4 inches in diameter in the front and 12.2 inches in the rear).  It can be had with 18 or 19 inch wheels (tire brand and model were not specified).  The car will be built in Wolfsberg and be available for sale in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2013.  It’s unknown when or if the new R will come to the United States.

Enjoy these TFLcar 2013 VW Golf R video reviews and mashups:

Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFLcar since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.