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2025 Volkswagen Golf R

Hatchback · 2.0L I4 Turbo · AWD

81/100

AutoVault's overall score, weighted for what a hatchback is actually for — performance, technology, comfort, reliability, safety and value.

Specifications

Engine2.0L I4 Turbo
Horsepower328 hp
Torque295 lb-ft
0–60 mph4.1 sec
Top speed155 mph
DrivetrainAWD
Seats5
Combined MPG25 mpg (22 city / 30 hwy)
Range428 miles
MSRP$47,710
Body styleHatchback

The verdict

What's good

  • Grippy all-wheel drive claws out of corners
  • Special drift mode for track-day fun
  • Hot-hatch fun with everyday usability
  • Cult-favorite that holds value well

What's not

  • Stiff ride wears on long drives
  • Touch-only controls frustrate on the move
  • Exhaust note is muted for the price
  • Pricey versus the cheaper GTI

The engine

EA888

2.0L Turbo I4

The EA888 is the everyman performance turbo-four: tractable and quiet in a family Atlas, yet eager and boost-happy in GTI and Golf R trim where it pulls hard with a crisp, muscular mid-range.

Launched in 2008 as part of Volkswagen Group's EA888 family to replace the older EA113 engines, it has been continuously evolved across four generations and is shared widely with Audi.

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