The Volkswagen Golf R is due to land on our shores in February and to add to the hype of this range-topping model, we found this exhilarating video.

We’ve touched on the specifications and engine of the new Volkswagen Golf R here and any doubts about the GTI’s performance credentials will be put at ease when this beast reaches South Africa later this week.

Volkswagen Golf R engine specifications

Powered by a highly-modified version of the current 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit found in the GTI, the Golf R boasts 221 kW and 380 Nm. New cylinder heads, exhaust valves, valve seats and springs, bigger turbocharger as well as new pistons differentiate the Golf R from its lesser-powered GTI sibling.

Performance will be quick, thanks to a combination of 4Motion all-wheel drive and DSG. Expect the Golf R to hit 100km/h in 4.9 seconds. A manual derivative will also be offered and will be fractionally slower.

Top speed is limited to 250km/h. Interestingly, fuel economy is claimed to hover around the 7l/100km figure – impressive considering the performance credentials of the Golf R.

Volkswagen Golf R price in South Africa

The new Volkswagen Golf R with DSG will be available from R486 200.