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Volkswagen has revisited its hottest model, the Golf R, for the American market. Although we don’t get the same Euro bump to 310 horsepower, we gain a new seven-speed DSG transmission that’s marginally quicker than the last, helping the car to reach faster speeds and better times on track. The MK7.5 Golf R also gets 17-inch drilled disc brakes and improved aerodynamics, making it more in step with its boy-racer competition, the Subaru WRX STI and Ford Focus RS.
The Golf R also gets a subtle facelift to differentiate it from the GTI, addressing a common complaint about the two models. Larger front intakes reflect a brassy demeanor that follows the car’s profile all the way back to the rear diffuser. A rear spoiler improves downforce, giving the VW a sportier look while also serving a functional purpose.
The Performance Package doesn’t add any straight line speed, but it’ll still perform 0-60 in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 166 miles per hour. A set of Pirelli Trofeo R tires are fitted to improve cornering Gs along with the rest of the track-focused additions, improving generously from last year’s model. A titanium Akrapovic exhaust is also in place to add a sporty sound to the high output 2.0L turbo four.
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Volkswagen announced that the Performance Package will be released “later this year”, though it didn’t give an exact date. Regardless of when it does, expect it to propel the Golf R to the next level of value for the $35K-$40K price range.