👉2025 VW Golf R -- Detailed Review + Test Drive

2025 Volkswagen Golf R Buyer’s Guide
Overview
The 2025 Golf R continues Volkswagen’s tradition of understated performance. Powered by the updated EA888 evo4 2.0L turbocharged engine, it delivers 328 hp (+13 over 2024) and 295 lb-ft of torque through a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission with 4Motion all-wheel drive and torque vectoring.
Fuel economy is 22 city / 31 highway / 25 combined MPG.
Starting MSRP: $47,100 + $1,225 destination.

Trim Levels
Golf R (Base)
Price: $47,100 + $1,225 destination
• Exterior
◦ LED headlights/taillights, illuminated grille & logo
◦ Gloss-black side mirrors w/ puddle lights, illuminated door handles
◦ 19-inch two-tone forged alloy wheels (20% lighter than last year)
◦ Blue-painted R brake calipers & accents
◦ Quad chrome exhaust tips
• Interior
◦ Nappa leather sport seats w/ blue stitching & R logos
◦ 12-way power driver’s seat (3 memory presets)
◦ Heated/ventilated front seats; heated rear outboard seats
◦ Black headliner, Carbon Gray décor trim
◦ Ambient lighting, 30-color configurable
• Technology
◦ 12.9-inch MIB3 Discover Pro infotainment w/ nav, wireless CarPlay & Android Auto
◦ Harman Kardon premium audio (480W, 9 speakers, subwoofer)
◦ Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro (10.25-inch, R-specific graphics, lap timer, G-meter)
◦ Head-up display
• Performance
◦ EA888 evo4 2.0L turbo, 328 hp / 295 lb-ft
◦ 7-speed DSG with launch control
◦ 4Motion AWD with torque vectoring (can send 100% rear torque to one wheel)
◦ DCC adaptive damping (customizable)
◦ Drive modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, Race, Drift, Special, Custom
• Safety / Driver Assistance
◦ IQ.DRIVE suite: Travel Assist, ACC Stop & Go, Lane Assist, Side Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, Front Assist
◦ Emergency Assist (can stop vehicle if driver incapacitated)
◦ Park Assist Plus (automatic steering/braking/throttle into parallel or perpendicular spots)
◦ Dynamic Road Sign Display, Light Assist

Golf R Black Edition
Price: $48,415 + $1,225 destination
• Adds/Changes from Base
◦ Black exterior accents replacing blue (logos, calipers, exhaust tips, grille/headlight accents)
◦ “BLACK” badge on B-pillars
◦ Gloss-black 19-inch multi-spoke wheels
◦ Genuine carbon fiber interior décor
This trim is for buyers who want a more stealth, premium look without losing performance.

Euro Style Package (Optional, $3,795)
• Available on both trims
• Lightweight diamond-patterned cloth seats w/ ArtVelours bolsters (manual adjust)
• Akrapovič titanium exhaust system
• Panoramic sunroof delete (weight savings, lower center of gravity)
• Deletes seat ventilation & driver’s seat memory
• Saves ~80 lbs overall
This package channels the Euro-market Golf R Clubsport ethos, prioritizing performance & weight savings.

Key Technical Specs
• Engine: 2.0L TSI I-4 turbo (EA888 evo4)
• Output: 328 hp @ 5850–6500 rpm / 295 lb-ft @ 2000–5850 rpm
• Drivetrain: AWD, 7-speed DSG
• 0–60 mph: ~4.5 sec (est., not officially quoted but consistent w/ power bump)
• Brakes: 14.1-inch vented cross-drilled front discs, 12.2-inch vented rears, 2-piston floating calipers
• Dimensions: 169.1" L / 70.4" W / 57.8" H / 103.5" wheelbase
• Curb Weight: ~3,450 lbs
• Cargo: 19.9 cu ft (34.5 cu ft seats folded)

Which One to Choose?
• Golf R (Base) → Best choice for most buyers. It balances luxury (ventilated leather, head-up display, sunroof) with hardcore performance.
• Black Edition → Same performance, stealthier look with black accents and carbon fiber. Great if you want exclusivity and a darker aesthetic.
• Euro Style Package → For purists who care about track performance over luxury. Deletes some comfort features for lighter weight and adds the titanium Akrapovič exhaust.

✅ Recommendation:
If you’re after the full luxury + performance combo, get the Base Golf R.
If you want a more sinister look, step up to the Black Edition.
If you’re a track-day enthusiast, add the Euro Style Package.