The Volkswagen GTi usually takes the spotlight off the more powerful R, but this 2014 rocket will get you from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds powered by a newly designed 296-horsepower TSI® engine, which is 30 hp stronger but up to 18 per cent more fuel efficient than the engine in the previous model. The Golf R’s top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The new model also transfers its turbocharged power to the road via a permanent all-wheel drive system; in this case, the latest version of the 4MOTION® system with a fifth-generation Haldex® coupling.
The market launch in Europe will start in the fourth quarter of 2013 with prices (in Germany) starting from €38,325.