Medium version: The Volkswagen Golf R returns with 333 hp

At Volkswagen, 2024 is the year of the facelifted Volkswagen Golf. This will also soon include an improved version of the absolute top sports version: the Golf R. The Volkswagen Golf R has returned to the Netherlands after a short break. Just the way it looked, but with more horsepower than ever before.

In December, the 320bhp Volkswagen Golf R disappeared from the Dutch price list. Only for a short time. The hot all-wheel drive sports version has now returned to the Netherlands. To be clear: this is about a pre-facelift Volkswagen Golf R. The new Volkswagen Golf may have already been introduced, but we'll have to wait a little longer for the facelifted Volkswagen Golf R to arrive. Is the Golf R back exactly the same? no. of course no!

The Volkswagen Golf R previously had a 320PS and 420Nm 2.0 TSI engine. There were more powerful versions of the Golf R, but they were always limited editions. Consider the Volkswagen Golf R 20 Years and the limited edition Golf R 333. They also had a 2.0 TSI engine, but the version was boosted to 333 hp. What does it look like? The “regular” Volkswagen Golf R that has now returned to the Netherlands also now has 333 hp!

The 333bhp Volkswagen Golf R has, as before, a seven-speed DSG transmission. The Golf R reaches 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 270 km/h, as per its name. This top speed indicates something interesting. Normally, the Golf R reaches a top speed of 250 km/h, unless you opt for the optional R Performance package. Combined with the roof spoiler and drift mode, this also provides a top speed of 270 km/h for the Golf R. The R Performance package is now standard. 19-inch wheels and dual chrome exhaust tips are also part of this package. Akrapoviç's R Performance exhaust remains optional (€4,020). You also have to pay extra for the premium blue color – called Lapiz Blue: €1,090.

The fact that the R Performance package is now standard also explains why the Golf R is now more expensive than it was. The Volkswagen Golf R now changes hands from €84,990, just under $4,000 more than before. Volkswagen Golf R Variant is not available.

The Golf R has been refurbished

Volkswagen recently showcased the facelifted Volkswagen Golf R in a sticker sheet printed with a psychedelic print. The updated Golf R gets different bumpers and of course benefits from changes that also apply to the milder versions of the updated Golf. We expect – as we wrote previously – that the facelifted Volkswagen Golf R will soon also have 333 horsepower.