Volkswagen Golf GTI vs Volkswagen Golf R
The two fast Golfs, side by side: how much does the R add over the GTI?
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Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk8), 2020–present
Volkswagen Golf R (Mk8), 2020–present
At a glance
The key differences
The Volkswagen Golf R makes 74 hp more: 316 hp against 242 hp for the Volkswagen Golf GTI.
The Volkswagen Golf R has the torque advantage, 420 Nm to 370 Nm.
To 100 km/h, the Volkswagen Golf R is quicker at 4.7 s against 6.3 s.
They put power down differently: Volkswagen Golf GTI is FWD, Volkswagen Golf R is AWD (4Motion).
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Volkswagen Golf GTI | Volkswagen Golf R |
|---|---|---|
| Years | 2020–present | 2020–present |
| Class | Hot hatch | Hot hatch |
| Engine | 2.0 L, EA888 | 2.0 L, EA888 |
| Layout | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Power | 242 hp (180 kW, 245 PS) | 316 hp (235 kW, 320 PS) |
| Torque | 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) | 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) |
| Power at | 5,000 rpm | 5,350 rpm |
| 0–100 km/h | 6.3 s | 4.7 s |
| Top speed | 250 km/h | 250 km/h |
| Drive | FWD | AWD (4Motion) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG | 7-speed DSG |
| Differential | — | Torque-vectoring rear differential |
| Kerb weight | — | — |
| Power to weight | — | — |
| Market | Europe | Europe |
Head-to-head card
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