New VW Golf R offers more bang for less bucks

Volkswagen Australia has confirmed the faster, more powerful new Golf R will be cheaper than the outgoing R32 when it arrives in Australia later this year. Speaking from the international launch of the car in Austria last week, the company confirmed the new model would undercut its V6-powered predecessor.

Although final pricing hasn't been revealed Volkswagen Australia spokesman Karl Gehling confirmed to the Carsales Network that the new Golf R wouldn't be more expensive than the current R32, which is priced from $57,990. Gehling also confirmed the car would arrive in Australian showrooms in June or July to complete the Mk VI Golf line-up.

"It's going to be priced between the current R32 and the GTI," Gehling confirmed, holding his cards close to his chest.

The 3.2-litre V6 found in the R32 is replaced in the new model by a new version of VW Group's 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder unit. The powerplant produces 199kW (up from 184kW in the R32) and 350Nm (up from 320Nm) in European spec cars, but uses 21 per cent less fuel, as the company fights stricter consumption rules around the globe.

However Australian drivers will get a detuned version of the Golf R's turbo four engine, one that produces less power.

As was the case of the previous model both a six-speed manual and six-speed double-clutch (DSG) transmissions will be offered. They are paired with an improved all-wheel-drive system that offers better grip and balance than the old car.

Larger ventilated brake discs are fitted to the Golf R and the car runs on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 225/40 tyres.

Gehling also revealed the Golf R will be offered in only one specification level in Australia but with a number of options available. They will include VW's Adaptive Chassis Control suspension system, leather sports seats, reversing camera, sunroof and 19-inch alloys.

The new car certainly impressed during our initial drive on a range of surfaces (including ice) in Austria. The new engine feels stronger than the old V6 and the reduced weight at the front of the car has a positive effect on the handling. Disappointingly, despite the retention of the central mounted twin-exhaust pipes the new engine doesn't reproduce the same impressive soundtrack of the R32.

As has been the case on other Golf models the DSG has been tweaked to lessen the hesitation of take-off but retain the lightening quick gear changes at speed.

Visit the Carsales Network again for our full review of the Golf R from our European preview.

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