In celebration of the Golf GTI turning 50 years old, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) today introduces a new look for the hot hatchback with exclusive new Hunstville Adamantium Dark rims – only available for 50 units of the GTI as a complimentary upgrade.
The upgrade comes at no additional cost to the new Golf GTI’s recommended retail price of RM255,990.
Featuring a striking dark finish, the 18″ 5 spoke alloy wheel with unique Y-spoke design allows a clear view of the GTI’s red brake callipers, enhancing the GTI’s unmistakable sporty character.
Volkswagen’s GTI 50 campaign is the brand’s global celebration of five decades of GTI heritage, marking the anniversary of its first release in 1976.
In Malaysia, enthusiasts can look forward to all things GTI this year – from social media giveaways to fun GTI activations at Volkswagen dealerships nationwide.
Volkswagen Malaysia is also currently running a Test Drive and Win contest, where customers are invited to test drive any Volkswagen model to be in the running to win a limited edition GTI Touch ‘n Go card.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced that the Golf R-Line will be priced at RM185,990, which includes the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP).
On the occasion of its launch, the first 50 customers will be offered a special price of RM179,990, also including the VAP.
The offered package includes free maintenance, mileage warranty, and roadside assistance for 5 years.
Specifications
The Golf R-Line is powered by a 1.5-liter eTSI mild hybrid engine that produces 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque, mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission.
This locally assembled model in Pekan features an underbody panel and enhanced aerodynamic aspects.
Other available features include:
R-Line front bumper and grille
R-Line side skirts
R-Line rear bumper
IQ.Light LED headlights
Illuminated VW logo
New Coventry wheels
Left and right chrome exhaust tips
Color options of Oryx White, Moonstone Grey, Grenadilla Black, Kings Red, and Anemone Blue
The cabin layout is driver-centered and offers the following features:
Digital Cockpit Pro display
12.9-inch infotainment screen with MIB4 system
IDA voice command assistance
Leather-wrapped sports steering wheel with heated function
3-zone automatic climate control
Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless smart device charging slot
R-Line stainless steel pedals
R-Line fabric upholstery
R-Line Carbon Grey trim
As standard, the 2026 Golf R-Line comes equipped with advanced IQ.Drive safety features, including:
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and motorcyclist detection
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Travel Assist
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Vehicle Exit Warning
Driver Attention Detection System
Park Distance Control, Emergency Assist, Side Assist, and Lane Assist
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced the return of the VW Golf R-Line hatchback variant for the local market.
This unit, assembled locally at the Pekan plant in Pahang, is equipped with a 1.5-liter eTSI mild hybrid (MHEV) engine that delivers 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque.
The engine is paired with a seven-speed DSG transmission featuring shift-by-wire technology.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 8.6 seconds, with fuel consumption rated at approximately 5.2 liters per 100 km.
In terms of exterior features, the Golf R-Line sports a design that enhances its sporty image, including:
17-inch Coventry alloy wheels
R-Line front bumper and grille
R-Line rear bumper
R-Line side skirts
Inside the cabin, highlights include:
R-Line black headliner
Stainless steel pedals
R-Line sporty steering wheel with physical function buttons
Carbon Grey R-Line trim on the dashboard and door panels
R-Line fabric upholstery for the front seats
Artvelours trim on the rear seats
Additionally, the Golf R-Line comes with a 12.9-inch infotainment screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a seven-speaker audio system, IDA voice assistance, paddle shifters, a three-zone automatic climate control system, and Type-C USB charging ports.
The IQ.Drive safety features include:
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Travel Assist
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Vehicle Exit Warning
Driver Attention Monitoring System
Park Distance Control, Emergency Assist, Side Assist, and Lane Assist
Currently, VPCM has not announced the official retail price for the Golf R-Line.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has officially announced the availability of the locally assembled (CKD) hot hatch model, the Golf GTI in Malaysia.
The vehicle is powered by a 2.0-liter TSI turbo engine that delivers 265 PS (+20 PS) and 370 Nm of torque.
This power is transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG transmission.
The exterior design of the Golf GTI features elements such as:
GTI front bumper
Honeycomb grille and front air intake trim
GTI rear bumper
Twin chrome exhaust tips on the left and right
GTI side skirts
18-inch Richmond alloy wheels
The cabin of the Golf GTI comes equipped with the following features:
GTI black headliner
Stainless steel pedals
Leather-wrapped GTI sports steering wheel with physical controls
Black Metal Chrome GTI accents on the dashboard and front door panels
Vienna leather-trimmed front seats
Additionally, it includes a 12.9-inch infotainment screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 480-watt Harman Kardon audio system with nine speakers and a subwoofer, USB Type-C charging ports, and a head-up display (HUD).
The Golf GTI is available in several colors: Oryx White, Moonstone Grey, Grenadilla Black, Kings Red, and Anemone Blue.
The retail price for the VW Golf GTI 2025 starts at RM242,990, or RM255,990 including the Volkswagen Warranty Package.
For a limited time, the first 50 buyers will qualify for an exclusive price of RM249,990 with registration before December 31, 2025.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia has announced the arrival of the special edition model, the Golf GTI Sepang Edition, which is also the first car in Malaysia to sport the official logo of the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
The introduction of this model honors the legacy of motorsports in Malaysia and the circuit that has served as a stage for prestigious world-class races, including Formula One and MotoGP.
Among the exclusive features on the exterior are:
Sepang Edition emblem at the rear
Sepang Edition logo with a UV gloss finish on the B-pillar
Sepang Edition plate
Richmond 19-inch alloy wheels with dynamic GTI wheel hub caps
Sporty side trim
Black-painted mirror housings, roof, front spoiler, and rear diffuser
GTI valve cover
Color options of Atlantic Blue and King’s Red
Inside the cabin, the Golf GTI Sepang Edition is enhanced with the following features:
GTI floor mats
Front and rear dash camera with Sony Starvis night sensor
Original VW Tint window film
Key holder with a certificate of authenticity
The Golf GTI is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 245 PS and 370 Nm of torque, driving the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG transmission.
The retail price starts at RM262,990, inclusive of the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP), which comprises a seven-year free maintenance package, unlimited mileage warranty, and five years of free roadside assistance.
In conjunction with the launch of the Golf GTI Sepang Edition, VPCM also announced a 10.10 sales promotion where the first 10 units registered will receive a 0% interest rate for 10 months.
Renate Noessler, Managing Director of VPCM, stated, “This is not just a car; it embodies the spirit of Sepang engineered into an icon.”
“As the first automotive brand to collaborate with SIC in introducing a vehicle, it is a testament to our respect for the racing legacy in Malaysia and our commitment to producing cars full of character. This collaboration allows us to create history together, and we are very proud of this achievement.”
Azhan Shafriman Hanif, Chief Executive Officer of SIC, remarked, “The collaboration between the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Volkswagen marks an exciting new chapter in the culture of motorsports in Malaysia.
“For over two decades, SIC has been the heartbeat of the nation’s motorsports, an arena that unites spirit and community. We are very grateful to Volkswagen for bringing the legacy of SIC beyond this circuit. The Golf GTI Sepang Edition is a symbol of national pride in motorsports that is close to the hearts of the Malaysian people.”
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) and Giti Tire Malaysia recently welcomed the famous world record holder Rainer Zietlow to Malaysia at the Volkswagen Glenmarie showroom (F.A. Wagen).
Driving a Volkswagen ID.Buzz, he is on a quest to set a world record for the “most countries visited with an electric vehicle.”
Since starting his journey, Zietlow has traversed 46 countries in 84 days, covering over 46,400 kilometers.
This is Zietlow’s second visit to Malaysia. Previously, he set a record by driving a Volkswagen Touareg in 2012.
For this journey, Zietlow is using an electric ID.Buzz van equipped with GitiSynergy H2 tires.
With advanced tire tread compounds and low rolling resistance, the GitiSynergy H2 tires are designed to support the heavy battery load, control torque instantly, and maximize travel distance.
They also perform excellently on wet surfaces to ensure stability and safety, especially when navigating through regions frequently affected by rain and slippery roads.
According to Renate Noessler, Managing Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia, Volkswagen embodies both innovation and exploration: “The Volkswagen brand is built on engineering excellence and emotional connection — vehicles that are made to move people, both physically and emotionally.
“The ID. Buzz is a modern revival of that legend, the VW Bus, the minibus a beloved icon. The ID. Buzz is carrying the same spirit, but reimagined for a new generation. Rainer’s mission really highlights its performance, reliability, and spirit of exploration that people all around the globe know and love.”
Shiroo Chia, Deputy GM, International Marketing, Giti Tire Group, emphasized how this journey showcases Giti’s technological strength: “Rainer’s ultra-long-distance journey is powerful real-world proof of GitiSynergy H2’s advanced technology and trusted performance. We’re proud that both the automaker and driver rely on Giti to conquer this 80,000-km, 70-country world tour.”
For Zietlow, the partnership between Volkswagen and Giti Tire has been central to his progress so far. “I am very happy to have Volkswagen and Giti Tire alongside me for this journey – the performance of the ID. Buzz and Giti tyres has met my expectations,” he said.
“The driving experience and overall capabilities are very good, and I am confident that I will be able to complete this zero-emissions world record attempt. I am thoroughly enjoying my second visit to Malaysia, and this will definitely not be my last.”
Next year (2026) marks the 50th anniversary since the Golf GTI first made its debut, and Volkswagen has a unique way to celebrate this achievement.
At the Nurburgring Circuit, Volkswagen successfully set a record for the fastest lap with a time of 7 minutes and 46.13 seconds, using the hot hatch Golf GTI Edition 50.
This makes the vehicle the fastest Volkswagen brand car at the Green Hell, surpassing the Golf R 20 Years (7:47.31) and the Golf Clubsport S (7:49.21).
For information, the lap time for the Golf GTI Edition 50 was achieved on the full circuit configuration of 20.8 km, compared to the older record format (20.6 km) used for the two mentioned Golf models.
Unfortunately, the Golf GTI Edition 50 is still not quite fast enough to break the record held by its competitor, the Honda Civic Type R, in the front-wheel-drive categorywhich recorded a time of 7:44.481 in 2023.
Volkswagen will unveil the Golf GTI Edition 50 at the 24-hour endurance race at Nurburgring on June 20, featuring a Performance Package that includes lighter 19-inch alloy wheels, Bridgestone Potenza semi-slick tires, and an upgraded chassis.
Did you know that Volkswagen actually has a special product that can boost the company’s revenue and profits?
It’s not the Volkswagen Golf, nor the Volkswagen Polo; instead, it’s the currywurst sausage!
According to a report by Autocar, Volkswagen will offer this sausage in a microwave-ready version at several major supermarkets starting in June 2025 in northern and eastern Germany.
The currywurst sausage has been produced since 1973, initially served only in factory canteens.
However, the popularity of the sausage eventually penetrated the German market before it began being sold in 11 countries worldwide.
It also holds the same status as Volkswagen automotive components (with code number 199 398 500 A) under the Volkswagen Originalteil (Volkswagen Original Part) brand.
Growing popularity has led to an increase in sausage production each year.
In 2015 alone, VW’s factory produced 7.2 million sausages, making it the most manufactured product compared to other VW automotive components.
In 2024, Volkswagen successfully sold 8.6 million of these sausages, surpassing the total vehicle sales (including commercial vehicles) of VW worldwide, which amounted to 5.2 million units.
Interestingly, Volkswagen had previously considered replacing the sausage with a plant-based version, but this plan faced strong opposition from employees.
For hot hatch enthusiasts, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is now offering the Golf GTI Black Edition to the local market.
The VW Golf GTI Black Edition features a dark exterior aesthetic inspired by the ‘Stealth’ concept.
In addition to the Deep Black color, the Golf GTI Black Edition is also available in Kings Red.
Key features include 18-inch Richmond alloy wheels, dynamic GTI hub caps, GTI valve caps, a BLACK logo, and black finishing on the front lip, rear diffuser, side skirts, and side mirrors.
Furthermore, the VW Golf GTI Black Edition comes with Volkswagen Tint heat-reflective film that complies with JPJ standards.
Inside the cabin, the Golf GTI Black Edition is equipped with Black Edition floor mats, Cargo Elements (with Velcro stickers), and a UTR2.0 dashcam.
Every owner will receive a special Black Edition box containing a Volkswagen key holder and a Certificate of Authenticity.
In terms of specifications, the VW Golf GTI Black Edition retains the 2.0-liter turbo engine (code EA888) capable of producing 245 PS and 370 Nm of torque.
Paired with a seven-speed DSG gearbox, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds.
The retail price of the VW Golf GTI Black Edition is now as low as RM243,990, which comes complete with the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP), featuring a seven-year free maintenance package, unlimited mileage warranty, and five years of complimentary roadside assistance.
The VW Golf GTI Black Edition will be showcased at the Volkswagen booth during the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 at MAEPS Serdang from May 9 to May 15, 2025.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has introduced three Wolfsburg edition models for the local market: the Arteon R-Line, Tiguan Allspace Elegance, and Tiguan Allspace R-Line.
All three models feature special details, such as the Wolfsburg logo, Wolfsburg floor mats, an owner’s box with a key holder and certificate of authenticity, as well as VW-branded valve caps.
Additionally, they include a Volkswagen Universal Traffic Recorder (UTR 2.0) camera at the front and rear.
The Arteon R-Line sedan comes with added features including:
VW LED logo light accents
Dynamic VW wheel caps
Rear door protective strip
Cargo Elements complete with Velcro stickers
Meanwhile, the Tiguan models are equipped with accessories such as:
Load edge protectors
Boot tray
Hooks and smartphone holders
Aluminum sport pedals (for the Elegance model)
Bumper corner protectors
All of these Wolfsburg edition models come with a complimentary seven-year maintenance package, as well as unlimited mileage warranty and roadside assistance for five years, as part of the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP).
The promotional selling prices (including VAP) are as follows:
Tiguan Allspace Elegance – RM180,990
Tiguan Allspace R-Line – RM243,990
Arteon R-Line – RM264,990
All three models will be showcased at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, held at MAEPS, Serdang from May 9 to May 15, 2025.
After several years, Volkswagen has finally admitted that the minimalist approach taken in the design of their vehicle cabins was a significant mistake.
This minimalist approach involved cramming all vehicle control functions into a central touchscreen and completely removing physical control buttons from the cabin.
In a report by Autocar, VW’s head of design Andreas Mindt acknowledged this mistake and promised to revert to a previous approach.
“Starting with the ID.2all model and beyond, we will reintroduce physical control buttons for the five most important functions – audio volume, temperature control for both the driver and passenger sides, airflow control, and hazard lights – beneath the main screen.
“This functionality will be reimplemented in every vehicle we produce. This time, we will not repeat this mistake.
“On the steering wheel, we will also bring back physical buttons. They provide feedback, create a real experience, and people will appreciate this feature.
“To be honest, it’s a car, not a phone,” he added.
The measures taken by VW are also a response to requirements set by Euro NCAP, which starting in 2026, will not allow a vehicle to achieve the maximum five-star rating unless it features physical controls for the horn, windshield wipers, turn signals, hazard lights, and SOS functions.
Since Tesla pioneered this minimalist approach, more manufacturers have attempted to follow the trend by offering simpler cabin layouts — meaning drivers must rely entirely on the screen to change necessary settings, especially while driving.
The situation has worsened with some vehicle models that do not have physical levers for turn signals, windshield wipers, or transmission.
In fact, in the name of cost savings, some manufacturers have even relocated window switches to the central console. While this creates a minimalist appearance, it ultimately complicates the user experience.
Volkswagen has confirmed its entry into the entry-level EV segment with the introduction of the ID.Every1, the smallest model in its all-electric ID lineup.
Although the model is still at the concept concept stage, it could hit the market sooner than you think. Volkswagen has announced that the production version will be launched in 2027, with a starting price of around €20,000 (RM95,555).
In addition to the ID.Every1, the company has revealed plans to introduce the ID.2all a year prior, carrying an estimated price tag of around €25,000 (RM119,461).
Both models are part of Volkswagen’s Electric Urban Car lineup, utilising the MEB modular electric drive platform with front-wheel drive.
The ID.Every1 will take over the baton from the e-up!, which ceased production in 2023. In terms of size, it is 280 mm longer than its predecessor, measuring 3,880 mm in length. The height stands at 1,490 mm, while the width reaches 1,816 mm.
It’s worth noting that the design you see is not the final version destined for production. Expect some changes in various areas, such as the side mirrors, door handles, and wheels.
While it may appear teeny, the car is spacious enough to comfortably seat four passengers, with a boot capacity of 305 litres.
The cabin design looks futuristic, but with a large infotainment screen, a small driver display, and a low centre console, it certainly looks like many other EVs on the market today.
According to Volkswagen, the ID.Every1 will be the first model within the Volkswagen Group to feature a new software architecture that enables the vehicle to receive updates and upgrades throughout its entire life cycle.
Powering the ID.Every1 will be a newly developed electric motor generating 95 PS (70 kW), allowing the compact EV to achieve a top speed of 130 km/h.
While the battery capacity has yet to be disclosed, Volkswagen claims that this car can cover at least 250 km on a single charge.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced revised pricing for the Volkswagen Touareg R-Line, which was launched in Malaysia in March last year.
Locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang, the flagship SUV is now priced at RM384,972 on the road, making it RM69,300 cheaper compared to its original launch price.
The new price includes a standard warranty for two years with unlimited mileage. With the Volkswagen Assurance Programme (VAP), which a five-year unlimited-mileage warranty, service maintenance and roadside assistance, the price increases to RM402,272, which is RM70,000 less compared to before.
According to VPCM, the adjustment comes in response to positive developments in Volkswagen’s local operations and a range of favourable market dynamics, allowing the savings to be passed on to customers.
The Touareg R-Line is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 TSI engine that delivers 340 PS and 450 Nm, transmitted to the wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 4Motion all-wheel-drive system.
It comes equipped with a range of cutting-edge technology, including advanced IQ.Light HD Matrix lighting technology, air suspension with automatic self-levelling, a Dynaudio sound system with 730 watts of amplification, and the IQ.Drive suite featuring Night Vision capabilities.
The Touareg R-Line is available in five colours, namely Lapiz Blue, Silicon Grey, Grenadilla Black, Oryx White, and Dolomite Silver.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) today launched its annual Volkswagen Cares initiative supporting Volkswagen owners affected by recent flood events across the country.
As part of this initiative, VPCM is offering 30% discount on genuine parts for flood-affected vehicles between October 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025, available at every authorised Volkswagen service centre across Malaysia.
Additionally, VPCM is providing a complimentary vehicle inspection to assess the extent of flood damage and recommend necessary repairs. This service aims to ensure the safety and reliability of all affected vehicles as part of its comprehensive after-sales care programme.
VPCM is also offering an easy payment plan where owners can spread their repair bills over six or twelve months at 0% interest. This initiative underscores Volkswagen’s commitment to customer care during challenging times whilst ensuring peace of mind.
Owners are encouraged to download the Volkswagen Cares App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to redeem their flood relief support voucher and book an appointment. The app also provides access to a range of other benefits and services designed to enhance the Volkswagen ownership experience.
VPCM continues to prioritise the needs of its customers by extending reliable and affordable offers, including guaranteeing the use of genuine Volkswagen parts and expert repairs, towards ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of their vehicles.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has launched the exclusive Golf GTI Edition 50 as part of the Golf’s 50 years anniversary celebrations.
The hatchback is priced at the recommended retail price (RRP) of RM267,990, inclusive of Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP), which supports owners with five years maintenance, five years unlimited mileage warranty, and five years roadside assistance.
The GTI Edition 50 is decked with an Oettinger body kit, new 18-inch Pretoria light alloy wheels in high-gloss black, black side mirror caps, exclusive Edition 50 emblems, and sporty side decorative films inspired by the signature GTI honeycomb.
Finishing touches to the are “Edition 50” tint, and “50” emblems on both B-pillars. The are two exterior colours to choose from, namely Oryx White and Moonstone Grey.
Inside, embellishments include a “50” emblem at the centre spoke of the GTI’s multi-function sport steering wheel, and “Edition 50” aluminium side scuff and front carpet mats.
No changes to the powertrain. The 2.0-litre TSI mill, which is coupled with a seven-speed wet clutch DSG, still generates a healthy 245 PS and 370 Nm.
Other niceties include a 10-speaker, 480-watt Harman Kardon premium sound system, a 10-inch Discover Media infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
Safety is supported with Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE technology and advanced driver assistance systems such as Travel Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Side Assist, Front Assist, Lane Assist and Head-up Display.
China is one of the most essential markets for Volkswagen, and now the German manufacturer has officially launched the electric-powered SUV coupe named ID.UNYX.
Built on the MEB platform, this compact SUV features dimensions measuring 4,663 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, 1,610 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,766 mm.
Externally, the ID.UNYX showcases a pair of sharp matrix LED headlights consisting of 13 LED units connected by a crossbar LED.
Meanwhile, the rear end presents a sleeker appearance with thinner light structures complemented by a crossbar LED and a glowing VW logo.
The sharp design elements are also carried over to the front dashboard where you can spot the air vent intentionally crafted to resemble the ID.UNYX’s headlights.
Among the existing features are a 5.3-inch instrument panel screen for the driver, a 2K resolution 15-inch floating screen, an augmented reality head-up display (AR), and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
Additionally, the ID.UNYX offers conveniences such as wireless device charging, a cup holder in the center console, AI assistance, 12-way adjustable seats, and support for Apple CarPlay, Baidu CarLife, and Huawei HiCar.
In China, the ID.UNYX is available with a choice of a single electric motor producing 227 hp or a dual electric motor variant with a combined power output of 335 hp.
The 82.4 kWh ternary lithium battery pack allows for a driving range of up to 621 km, or 565 km for the dual motor version.
The selling price ranges from 209,900 yuan to 249,900 yuan (RM135,000 to RM161,000) with three available variants: Pro, Ultra, and Max.
VOLKSWAGEN has introduced the Golf R facelift, which not only comes with a fresher design and the latest features but also a more powerful engine.
As with the pre-facelift model, the Golf R Mk8.5 is available in both the five-door hatchback and estate (known as the Golf R Variant) guises.
At first glance, it may appear similar to the Mk8 Golf R, but the facelifted version has a fresher front fascia made up of new LED Plus headlights, larger intakes on the bumper, and illuminated LED strips and VW logo.
Customers can now opt for the available 19-inch Warmenau wheels, which the automaker claims weigh only 8 kg each and have a more efficient design for brake cooling.
Inside, you will find a 12.9-inch touchscreen display (the largest offered by Volkswagen to date) with improved operation and a 10.2-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster with a new Sport Skin display mode.
The infotainment system now includes the voice assistant IDA, which accesses the AI-based software ChatGPT to answer questions. The responsiveness of the steering wheel touch panels has been optimised, the brand said.
Customers looking to spruce up cabin can do so by ticking the box for the Nappa leather upholstery and rear carbon fibre trim.
Like before, the Golf R Mk8.5 is powered by the EA888 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, but this time the output has been bumped up from 320 PS to 333 PS, making it the most powerful Golf ever produced.
The engine is paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission tasked with delivering power to the wheels through the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with R-Performance Torque Vectoring.
Although torque remains at 420 Nm, the 0-100 km/h acceleration time has been cut short by 0.2 seconds to just 4.6 seconds. Needless to say, the maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
However, the figure can be increased to 270 km/h if equipped with the optional R-Performance package.
Said package also adds two more driving modes, namely Drift and Special. The former needs no explanation, while the latter is specifically adapted to the conditions on the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Not stopping there, Volkswagen also throws in a GPS lap timer and G-meter – both of which are displayed in the Digital Cockpit Pro.
IT is safe to say that the transition towards full electric (EV) is not progressing as some manufacturers expected. Several manufacturers have delayed their electrification goals.
Just last year, Volkswagen projected that EVs would account for up to 80 percent of vehicle sales in Europe by the end of this decade. However, the lukewarm reception of their ID models has led VW to reassess their strategy.
Of the 180 billion Euros (RM914 billion) budget allocated in 2023 for new-generation EVs, the German manufacturer will now use one-third of it for the development of combustion engines.
This announcement came from Arn Antlitz, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Volkswagen Group. “The company aims to spend approximately 60 billion Euros (RM304 billion) to ensure our combustion cars remain competitive.”
He added, “The future is electric, but the past has not yet ended.”
Last year, VW CEO Thomas Schäfer referred to ICE as “old technology” in the context of e-fuel. He stated that synthetic fuels were just “unnecessary noise,” even though Porsche, also part of the same group, is actively involved in synthetic fuels at its plant in Chile.
Another premium brand under VW is also researching how sustainable fuels can evolve. Bugatti plans to build fuel stations that can be installed at owners’ homes and filled with synthetic fuels.
Lamborghini believes combustion engines can be saved by making them run on fuels other than fossil oil. Bentley is also exploring fuels with almost zero carbon emissions.
It is clear that more car manufacturers are reassessing their EV strategies as consumers are not yet ready to let go of ICE engines.
Manufacturers are somewhat aggressive as emission standards become stricter, necessitating investment in cleaner-running petrol engines. At the same time, the influx of EVs from China is also concerning major manufacturers.
In the span of eight generations, the Volkswagen Golf has brought forth countless special edition models. One of the highly coveted models is a sixth-generation Golf powered by the VR6 engine.
However, due to unknown reasons, the car never saw the light of day. Had it been made available to buyers, it still would have been the most powerful Golf model in the market.
According to Enrico Beltz, Chief of Content, Classic Communication & Media Relations, the VR6-powered was built as a one-off model in 2009, before the release of Golf R Mk6.
The 3.2-litre engine fitted into said Golf was essentially the same engine found in the Golf R32 but that particular unit was tuned and built by Rothe Motorsport.
While the original naturally-aspirated version had only 247 hp, the reworked engine made a whopping 463 hp and 520 Nm of torque.
The upgrades made include a Garret GT35 turbocharger, custom pistons, a new intake manifold, new injectors, aluminum pressure pipes, and Rothe Motorsport exhaust valves, to name a few.
VW also fitted brakes from an Audi RS6, 19-inch wheels from Lamborghini, and Bilstein B16 suspension system. The interior was reupholstered with Alcantara and leather wrapping on the dashboard.
The performance figures were never disclosed, but with a dual-clutch seven-speed transmission, all-wheel drive system, and a weight of around 1,360 kg, it would have been able to keep up with any modern supercar. VW claims it is capable of achieving speeds exceeding 250 km/h.
Golf GTI W12-650
Interestingly, this was not the last Golf to be equipped with the VR6 engine. In 2013, the German manufacturer introduced the Golf Design Vision GTI concept car with over 500 hp. Two years later, the Golf GTI Supersport Vision Gran Turismo emerged with 503 hp on tap.
If you think the VR6 is the largest engine ever crammed into the Golf, you are mistaken. 17 years ago, VW did the unthinkable by stuffing a 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine from the Bentley Continental GT into a Golf Mk5-based concept car.
Known as the Golf GTI W12-650, the car had 641 hp, front brakes from an Audi RS4, and rear axle and brakes from a Lamborghini Gallardo.
VOLKSWAGEN Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced the official sale of the locally assembled Golf R, at the recommended retail price of RM334,012 on-the-road without insurance.
The price is inclusive of Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP), which supports owners with a five-year maintenance, five-year unlimited mileage warranty, and five-year roadside assistance.
The Golf R comes standard with the R Performance Package, which includes a titanium Akrapovič exhaust, 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels, a new rear spoiler, as well as Drift and Special modes.
The Drift and Special modes – accessible through the R button on the steering wheel, extend the range of customisation modes for the drivetrain and chassis to inject even more excitement to the driving experience.
In Drift mode, torque is prioritised to the rear wheels for fluid and controlled slides. The Special mode, which is specifically designed for the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, adjusts suspension settings for optimum contact.
Powering the Golf R is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged TSI engine pushing out 320 PS and 400 Nm of torque. With a seven-speed wet-type, dual-clutch DSG transmission, the Golf R rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds to reach a maximum speed of 250 km/h.
Stability and traction is maintained via its 4Motion all-wheel drive system with performance torque vectoring.
Visually, the flagship model of the Golf range is identified by its motorsport-inspired R front bumper and R radiator grille. Three colour choices are available – the signature Lapiz Blue, Deep Black and Pure White.
Inside, there’s R decorative trim in Carbon Grey, premium Nappa sport leather seats, as well as the R performance steering wheel with blue backlit R button and shift paddles.
Other new features include a head-up display, 10-inch Discover Pro infotainment system, a 10-speaker, 480-watt Harman Kardon sound system, wireless smartphone charging and automatic high beam assist.
The Golf R is supported with IQ.Drive, which comprises Travel Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Side Assist, Front Assist, Lane Assist and Emergency Assist.
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