2022 Volkswagen Golf R

History/Overview

The Golf R is VW’s performance flagship, a compact hatchback with a potent turbocharged engine and scrappy AWD traction. It’s been an on-and-off member of the VW Canada lineup since 2012.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

Volkswagen has redesigned the Golf R for 2022 to mark the arrival of the Golf’s eighth generation. This and the less-extreme Golf GTI (which is covered in a separate buyer’s guide entry) are the only ways to get a Golf in Canada now, as VW has cancelled the entry-level TSI version for 2022.

Available Trims

The Golf R comes in a single trim. Power is from a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine, which comes with AWD and your choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmissions.

Standard Features

Golf R comes fitted with 19-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, lighted grille, passive keyless entry, rear spoiler, heated steering wheel, heated/ventilated front and heated rear seats, Nappa leather upholstery, power driver’s seat, three-zone A/C, digital gauges, 10.0-inch touchscreen, navigation, nine-speaker audio, head-up display, parking sensors, and wireless phone charging.

Also included is an IQ.Drive suite of safety assists comprising semi-autonomous driving ability, collision avoidance, pedestrian/cyclist detection, blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic high beams, and road sign recognition.

Fuel Economy

Volkswagen’s fuel consumption estimates are 11.8/8.3 L/100 km (city/highway) with the six-speed manual transmission, and 10.3/7.7 L/100 km for automatic models.

Key Options

Golf R’s only option is a panoramic sunroof.

Competition

With the Golf R, Volkswagen goes toe-to-toe with the Subaru WRX, Hyundai Veloster N, Honda Civic Type R, and Mazda3 Sport Turbo.