Volkswagen has posted some photos of facelifted Golf R models that attended the Zell-am-See racing events in Austria this weekend, piloted by Hans-Joachim Stuck and Johan Kristoffersson. The proper reveal remains scheduled for mid-year.
Compared to the base Golf version that received its update in January (see video), the R boasts a different aero kit, new wheels, and trademark blue calipers. All tech details remain unannounced.
The latest Golf GTI has come precariously close to the R in terms of raw power output, rising from 245 to 265 PS (from 242 to 261 hp; from 180 to 195 kW, respectively). The old Golf R was rated at 320 PS (316 hp / 235 kW). Since the gap between the two may now be too small for customers to prefer the R over the GTI, we expect Volkswagen to bump up the output of the R respectively. It did have a Performance version not long ago rated at 333 PS (328 hp / 245 kW), so it should be possible.
Other than that, we expect the main formula to stay the same. All-wheel drive, rear-wheel torque control, stiffer suspension, less clearance and a dedicated Drift Mode – all of this should make it safely into the next model year. Like its tamer cousins, the new Golf R should also get an improved infotainment system and a ChatGPT-based voice assistant.