THE Golf GTI and R are among the best hatches in Mzansi but VW was not satisfied and aimed to improve its excellence even further.
What to expect
After selling over 350 000 since the seventh generation Golf was first introduced in 2013, VW launched the upgraded model. SunWheels checked out the TSI but got behind the wheel of the GTI and R for a test drive.
On top of its fine looks, VW has increased engine power, which means the “vrrrrr-pas” are sure to be looking at the new Golf R with hunger.
It’s time to make the roads bigger because that was the only thought on the SunWheels team when we emerged at the unveiling of the latest versions of the Golf7 TSI, GTI and R.
Features of the Golf 7
VW said this generation Golf R remains a benchmark for driver assistance systems in the compact class . They boasted that it is full of technology that significantly improves its safety such as the optional blindspot monitor with rear traffic alert as well as adaptive cruise control with front-assist and autonomous emergency braking system.
Standard features
- LED headlamps
- Driving profile selection
- Park distance control
- Active info display
- Panoramic sunroof
- Composition media radio with 8 seconds touchscreen and App Connect
- R19 alloy wheels
- All the new versions of the Golf 7 are sold with a factory warranty that covers three years or 120 000km of driving.
Extra or optional features
- Carbon exterior mirror housings
- Nappa-carbon leather seats
- Adaptive chassis control
- Adaptive cruise control with front assist and emergency breaking
- Discover Pro radio with satellite navigation
- Blindspot monitor with rear traffic alert.
Special kit features
Like always, the GTI and R look quite sharp, daring and exciting. Design highlights include the optional R performance titanium exhaust as well as R performance brakes with brake calipers painted black with the R logo.
The power under the bonnet
The real magic of the Golf model lies in the 2,0-litre TSI engine sitting under the bonnet. It pushed the Golf R from zero to 100km/h in 4,6 seconds. The speed would not be possible without the extremely fast shifting of the seven-speed, dual-clutch DSG gearbox and the launch control standard feature on the R.
PRICING
- 1,0 TSI Trendline manual – R316 200
- 1,0 TSI Comfortline manual – R337 000
- 1,4 TSI Comfortline DSG – R390 200
- 2,0 TDI GTI DSG – R528 000
- 2,0 TSI GTI DSG – R558 000
- 2,0 TSI R DSG – R676 000
