VW Unveils the Mk8.5 Golf R and Golf R Black Edition

After much anticipation, Volkswagen has finally unveiled its new top of the range Golf model and it most definitely has made a huge splash. It will come in 3 different flavors, The standard Golf R hatchback, an estate(Golf R variant), and the Golf R Black Edition, an exclusive blacked out model. Sadly, US shores will only see the standard and the Black edition, sorry wagon fans. Let’s take a closer look.

Based on the 8th generation of the Golf, which saw its own major update this year, there is plenty to see on the mid cycle facelift. At a glance you will notice redesigned LED headlights with a newly facelifted front bumper. There is also now an illuminated VW badge as the center point to really catch your eye. As mentioned previously, an option for 19-inch “Warmenau” forged wheels, which come in at about 17.6 lbs, give you a great look at those brakes with the added bonus of efficient brake cooling and will come in handy for track days. The rear also gets some updates with newly designed taillights that just help bring it all together. Needless to say, this car looks pretty sharp.

Jumping inside, it’s really hard to miss the giant 12.9-inch infotainment screen. Now running a new software that also has upgraded voice-assistant function, this should perform better than the previous iteration. In an odd twist, VW has opted to revamp the capacitive touch buttons rather than opting for the good old fashioned standard buttons the recently updated GTI received. They have stated they have worked on the design however as to prevent accidental use that many complained about on the original MK8 Golf R setup.

The driver and front passenger seats have been refined as well. They continue to have the integrated head restraints and R logo in the backrest and what looks to be a mixed fabric design in the seats. There will be an optional black nappa leather interior with carbon-look elements with blue applications on the side area. For those that aren’t a fan of the carbon-look, there will be an option to have real carbon.

Under the hood we have the 2.0-liter turbocharged EA888 EVO4 producing 328hp, which is 13 more than previous, mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission which is sadly the only option. Sorry manual transmission fans. The Drift and Special mode have returned, as well as the GPS lap timer and G-meter if you get the performance pack.

If you are feeling something a little darker, there is the Exclusive Golf R Black edition. With it you get blacked out VW and R logos, black brake calipers, blacked out wheels, and black tailpipe trim. Darkened LED headlights also come standard. You can also opt-in for the R-Performance pack that is available for the other model. As cool as the Black Edition is, we were hoping for something that pushed the envelope just a bit further.

We should be finding out more regarding the US version of the car later this year. The new Golf R should start showing up in the US early 2025. Let us know what you think of the latest iteration of this very hot hatch. Don't forget to check out the new Jetta announcement also!