Volkswagen releases Performance Pack for Golf R

Volkswagen has detailed a new Performance Pack option for Golf R owners in Europe who regularly track their car.

Available on the upcoming flagship all-wheel drive R version of the recently facelifted Golf 7.5 facelift, the new Performance Park unfortunately doesn't actually boost power of the standard car’s 228kW 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder.

Instead, it introduces an Akrapovic titanium exhaust that cuts 7kg from the kerb weight and provides the Golf R with a more inspiring soundtrack.

Better yet, for those who enjoy the quiet life, the exhaust is active and changes with the engine modes.

The weight saving continues with a lighter uprated brake package that shaves another 2kg off the kerb weight.

The savings come from widespread use of aluminium in its construction.

Shunning ceramic discs, the brake rotors are still cast steel but have been developed to resist fade and cope better with the rapid heating and cooling associated with track days.

The brake upgrade also comes with performance pads that are claimed to provide a precise feel through the pedal despite being capable of resisting higher temperatures without a drop-off in performance.

Created for both the three- and five-door and wagon version of the Golf R, the options can be ordered separately and also include aerodynamic tweaks aimed to cut drag and increase downforce.

These include new air curtains for the front bumper, redesigned side skirts and a rear diffuser. There's also a larger rear spoiler that, alone, is credited with adding an additional 20kg of downforce.

The kit is likely to be offered with the facelifted Golf R when it goes on sale Down Under in two weeks' time.

Volkswagen Australia hasn't confirmed pricing for the new performance upgrades but, using the UK pricing as a guide, they won't be cheap.

If you're considering the titanium Akrapovic exhaust, British buyers a have to fork out a shocking £2975 ($A5000) while the front spoiler costs £367 ($A600) and the rear boot lid another £393 ($A650).

That's especially galling considering the Performance Pack-equipped Golf R takes the same 5.1 seconds to hit 100km/h (4.6sec for the DSG) as the regular car.