All-new Volkswagen Golf R Wagon debuts in Australia

KUALA LUMPUR: The SUV segment comprises a total of 65% in the new vehicle sales, it seems that everyone wants an SUV these days. Well, we think Volkswagen does not agree with this as it just pulled the wraps off the all-new Volkswagen Golf R Wagon in Australia. The long roof Golf R gets the same punch as the soon-to-be-launched Golf R hatch but of course, it gets more space at the back.

The bigger cargo will let the customers store 611 litres of luggage with the second-row seats in place and 1,642 litres when seats are folded.

Powering the new Golf R wagon is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine generating a maximum power output of 234 kW and a peak torque of 420 Nm. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission channels the power to all four wheels and enables the car to hit a century sprint in 4.9 seconds. Compared to the Golf R hatchback, the wagon is 2 seconds slower due to increased weight.

As for top speed, the car can clock the target of 250 kmph in standard setup while the R Performance Package on board makes it 270 kmph. Besides adding to the speed, the pack also brings on 19-inch 'Estoril' alloy wheels, and Special and Drift drive modes.

Just like the engine, the wagon also retains the hatchback's chassis and dynamics. These include torque-vectoring rear differential, firm suspension, 358 mm brake discs at the front, and Michelin tyres. The ride height is lowered by 20 mm.

Volkswagen’s Manager of Product and Services, Jeff Shafer says “Wagons remain important to Volkswagen customers. We’re not suggesting that these vehicles will sell in Tiguan numbers, but there remains an expectation that Volkswagen can supply a lower-riding alternative – especially in high-specification, fast, 4MOTION form.”

In terms of styling, more aggressive bumpers, bigger side skirts, and quad exhaust tips mark the difference between the two body styles. Inside the cabin, the same 10-inch infotainment touchscreen takes the centre stage with a 10.25-inch digital driver display and R sports seats.

The new Volkswagen Golf R wagon is expected to hit the Australian showrooms early next year.

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