Over seven generations and almost 40 years, the Volkswagen Golf GTI has defined what a hot hatchback should be. The Volkswagen Golf R has become a performance standard of its own, offering all-wheel-drive grip and refined power. This year, the eighth generation of both legends arrive in the United States to keep the spirit of driving fun alive.
The all-new versions of both vehicles offer more standard power, more standard technology and sharper style than before, while preserving their affordability – and available manual transmissions.
“The previous Golf GTI and Golf R models were widely regarded as the two of the best hot hatches you could buy, but the Mark 8 versions up the ante,” said Hein Schafer, Senior Vice President, Product Marketing and Strategy, Volkswagen of America. “This duo has more performance, better handling, more standard equipment and improved tech features, yet minimal price increases.”