2021 Volkswagen Golf R, GTI Clubsport now available in the UK

KUALA LUMPUR: Last month, Volkswagen globally unveiled the fourth-generation of the iconic Golf R featuring hotter looks and the next-level performance potential. And back in October, we witnessed the official debut of the all-new Golf GTI Clubsport, a modern compact sports car that not only boosts high engine power but also impresses with its driving dynamics. The latest update on the two hot hatches comes from the UK, where these models are now available for sale.

Volkswagen UK marketing head Sarah Cox said: “Christmas has come early for fast Volkswagen fans, with not just one performance hero opening to UK customers today, but two. The Golf GTI Clubsport takes the iconic GTI with its winning formula and turns the dial up for even more driver involvement and focus, while the Golf R maintains its all-round appeal, with a fantastic new version of our 4Motion system providing even more fun behind the wheel.”

Being the range-topping variant of the Golf hatch, the 2021 Volkswagen Golf R is priced at £39,270 (RM 214,526) on-the-road, making it more expensive than the premium offerings from Audi Sport, Mercedes-AMG, and BMW M. However, the sportier and the most powerful Golf ever made somehow justifies the tag.

Under the hood, it houses a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-pot engine that generates 319 PS of maximum power and 420 Nm of peak torque. That’s an increase of 27 PS and 41 Nm. The engine is mated to a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox and 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with Torque Vectoring, allowing the hatch to hit the 100 kmph mark in 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 kmph.

In terms of standard equipment, the 2021 Golf R gets a bespoke body kit, quad exhaust pipes, roof spoiler, 18-inch alloy rims, sports seats in black/blue cloth upholstery, heated steering wheel, dedicated R button, and extended paddle shifters. However, features like a panoramic sunroof, Akrapovic exhaust system, Harman/Kardon audio system, head-up display, and R-Performance Package including 19-inch wheels, performance rear spoiler, and two new driving modes are available as optional ones.

Coming to the 2021 Golf GTI Clubsport, the model is priced at £37,215 (RM 203,300) in the UK market undercutting the Golf R by £2,055 (RM 11,227). It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 300 PS and 400 Nm. Together with a fast-shifting 7-speed DSG gearbox, it accelerates from zero to 100 kmph in 5.6 seconds, which makes it the fastest-accelerating Golf GTI, ever. 

Visually, the latest iteration features a distinctive front bumper with a new splitter, two-piece rear spoiler, black graphics on the side skirts, 19-inch wheels, and new upholstery on the seats.

The hot hatches are expected to hit the other markets soon.

Also read: Volkswagen Mk8 Golf GTI coming soon to Malaysia