2022 Volkswagen Golf R design detailed

We’ve already seen the next-generation 2022 Volkswagen Golf R in all its glory when it was unveiled back in March, followed a few months later by the new Golf R wagon.

But as momentum builds towards both models’ Australian launch early next year, Volkswagen has shared further details on what went into the new R-rated hatchback’s design.

Following in the tyre tracks of the new Golf GTI that went on sale earlier this year, the Golf R packs way more visual oomph.

With a “race-inspired” exterior, more aggressive R-specific bumpers feature at both ends – the front including splitter and side air intakes – while Volkswagen describes the side profile as “unobtrusive yet deliberately muscular”.

Up front, a blue strip now sits within the upper portion of the grille above a separate LED strip that runs between the headlights and integrates into the LED daytime running lights (DRLs).

Elsewhere, 19-inch black alloy wheels come standard, as do bright blue brake callipers, body-coloured side skirt extensions and matte aluminium side mirror caps that project an ‘R’ logo onto the ground when opening the front doors. 

Along with a reworked rear bumper, the Golf R adds a high-gloss black diffuser and a new quad exhaust system, while LED tail-lights feature as standard.

Inside the cabin, the new Volkswagen Golf R will enter with several updates already seen on the rest of the Mk8 Golf range, including new touch and slider controls/buttons for the climate control and larger 10.0-inch infotainment system, bringing a more minimalist design.

Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit Pro will also come standard, bringing new features such as a digital lap timer and horizontal RPM display. 

A head-up display is fitted, along with a sports leather steering wheel, R-specific shift paddles, carbon-look interior trim panels, 30-colour ambient interior lighting and a pair of front sports seats with integrated head restraints emblazoned with blue ‘R’ logos and finished in perforated black Nappa leather.

Australian specs are still to be finalised, but expect the signature Lapiz Blue Metallic (shown here in US trim) to be available, as well as Pure White and Deep Black Pearl exterior colour options.

Bolstered by an upgraded version of Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that now produces 235kW of power and 420Nm of torque, the all-wheel drive Golf R will arrive in Australia with a seven-speed DSG auto, but not the six-speed manual gearbox offered overseas.

A more powerful Golf R Plus has also been confirmed, however its arrival is yet to be confirmed for Oz.

Stay tuned for more local details, including pricing, closer to the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R’s arrival.