2023 Volkswagen Golf R CKD bookings open in Malaysia; est. price begins at RM 330k

KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia previewed the all-new locally assembled Golf R at the Sepang International Circuit yesterday. The hot hatchback is locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang, marking Malaysia as the first country outside Germany to assemble the Golf R.

VPCM has started accepting bookings for the Golf R CKD model; the estimated pricing ranges between RM 330,000 and RM 350,000.

One of the biggest upgrades we get in the locally assembled Golf R over the imported one is the “R Performance Package”. This standard package includes -

• 7 kg lighter Titanium Akrapovič exhaust, designed by leading exhaust company Akrapovič
• “Drift” and “Special” modes accessible through the “R” button positioned on the steering wheel. The former is perfect for sliding action while the latter is best for back and country roads
• A new rear spoiler
• 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels wrapped with 235/35R19 tyres 

Other additional features we get with the new Volkswagen Golf R CKD are Head-Up Display, wireless smartphone charging, and automatic high beam assist. The safety pack now integrates IQ.DRIVE technology with features like Travel Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control, Side Assist, Front Assist, Lane Assist, and Emergency Assist.

However, there are no changes in terms of mechanical setup. The car continues to get power from the familiar 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged engine, which is good for making 320 PS of maximum power and 400 Nm of peak torque. The transmission duties are handled by a 7-speed DSG transmission whereas stability and traction are maintained via the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with performance torque vectoring. 

Performance-wise, the hatchback runs from zero to 100 kmph in 4.8 seconds and hits a top speed of ​​250 kmph.

The other continuing bits are - a 10-inch Discover Pro system, 480-watt Harman Kardon sound system with 10 speakers, keyless entry with push-button ignition, an illuminated strip between LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, rearview camera, power-adjustable front seats, ambient lighting, leather sports steering wheel with shift paddles, and seven airbags.

The 2023 Volkswagen Golf R CKD colour palette comprises three striking tones - Lapiz Blue, Deep Black, and Pure White. 

Upon introducing the locally assembled Golf R, Denyu Bostandzhiev, Managing Director of VPCM said, “We are extremely proud to present the new Golf R here for our loyal fans. With the new upgrades, we see this performance hatchback as the ultimate driving machine, on the road and track, offered at a very attractive price.” 

“To be able to claim to be the first country out of Germany to assemble this product is a real honour for us. This special mandate given by Germany validates our continuous commitment towards the Volkswagen brand, and now with this new introduction, I am pleased to note that our full range of products here are entirely assembled at the Volkswagen plant in Pekan,” he added.

Interested folks can book the new Golf R at any authorised Volkswagen dealership across the country. For more information, check out www.volkswagen.com.my. 

Also read: 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace lineup gets the IQ.DRIVE suite in Malaysia