The Volkswagen Golf Variant R arrives in Spain: these are its credentials

Compact sporty estates with more than 300 CV are not that common in our market. And if we limit the price to 50,000 euros, the offer is practically reduced to two: the new Volkswagen Golf Variant R and its main rival, the Cupra León Sports Tourer.

The Cupra León comes just short at 310 CV, but it is not far behind the Golf Variant R in performance and dynamic behaviour, with which it shares its technical base: platform, engine, transmission… Its price is considerably lower: it is available from 44,200 euros, compared with the 48,200 euros of the Golf Variant R, both with discounts included.

2.0 TSI engine with 320 CV, all-wheel drive and DSG7 gearbox

As with the 5-door version, the VW Golf R, the new Golf Variant R is the most powerful and sporty family Golf ever built. Its 2.0 TSI engine produces 320 CV and delivers a maximum torque of 420 Nm, which allows the Golf Variant R to break the 5-second barrier in the 0 to 100 km/h sprint from a standing start. For the lap in this test, it recorded 4.9 seconds, which gives an idea of its potential.

The 4Motion all-wheel drive and the DSG7 dual-clutch gearbox are combined with the new “R-Performance Torque Vectoring” torque distribution system and the XDS electronic differential lock to ensure that the chassis of the Golf Variant R responds perfectly when it comes to making the most of the most sporty side of this model.

Even so, the most demanding customers can opt for the “R-Performance” package, with details such as 19-inch specific alloy wheels with 235/35 tyres, an increase of the electronic top speed limiter from 250 to 270 km/h, and specific driving modes for controlled drifting or track driving.

Towing capacity of up to 1,900 kg

In addition to the R-Performance package, customers who wish to personalise their Golf Variant R without focusing on performance can opt for the “Black Style” package, with aesthetic details in black finishes.

As standard, the Golf Variant R already includes specific decoration with gloss black trim, bumpers with larger air intakes, an exclusive rear diffuser, two twin exhaust outlets, sill covers and 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior features sports seats with upholstery that adds contrasting stitching and the embroidered R logo, a multifunction sports steering wheel with haptic buttons, oversized gear paddles, carbon inserts, sports pedals finished in brushed steel and an exclusive R-view display mode on the digital instrument cluster.

As a practical detail, for the first time on the Golf Variant R, the option of fitting a folding tow hitch is offered. The towing capacity with this accessory reaches 1,900 kg.

Image gallery Volkswagen Golf Variant R