Volkswagen South Africa has confirmed price and specification details for the Golf 8 R. Here’s how much you can expect to pay for it, plus we examine the options on offer..

Even though the Volkswagen Golf 8 R was revealed back in 2020, it feels like a lifetime for the model to reach South Africa.

Covid-19-related delays, the semi-conductor shortage and the impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are but some of the contributing factors that have resulted in the long wait for the Golf 8 R to reach South Africa.

MORE: Here’s why the VW Golf 8R was delayed

The Golf 8 R was due to go on sale locally in Q3 2022, which is now, but Volkswagen South Africa has confirmed that the local launch has been further pushed out to 2023 which will undoubtedly further frustrate local Golf R fans who have been eagerly waiting to finally get their hands on Volkswagen’s latest hot hatch.

What engine will power the VW Golf 8 R?

The new VW Golf 8 R will land in SA in April 2023.

A turbocharged 2.0-litre EA 888 petrol engine will offer no less than 235 kW and 400 Nm of torque and will be paired with an updated, quick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Golf 8 R is also equipped with a new 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with R-Performance Torque Vectoring which is linked to the Vehicle Dynamics Manager (VDM), electronic centre and rear differential and Adaptive Chassis Control to deliver precise and agile dynamic handling ability.

As far as performance is concerned, the Golf 8 R will take just 4.8 seconds to reach 100 kph from standstill and will go on to reach a top speed of 250 kph. Claimed fuel consumption is said to be 7.8 l/100km.

What features will be fitted as standard on the VW Golf 8 R?

The Golf 8 R will feature the firm’s latest digital and infotainment technology.

The VW Golf 8 R will be fitted with standard features including mobile inductive charging, a panoramic sunroof, Keyless Entry with safelock, an electric tailgate and luggage compartment as well as Volkswagen’s Discover Pro infotainment system with satellite navigation, Wireless App-Connect and Voice Control. Nappa leather upholstery will also be standard along with a Light and Vision Package including high-beam control light assist.

The Golf 8 R will ride on 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels as standard and will be offered with a choice of 3 exterior colours including Pure White, Lapiz Blue Metallic and Deep Black Pearl.

Buyers will also be able to choose from a selection of optional features including IQ.Light LED Matrix Headlights (R11 000), Akrapovič Exhaust (R73 000), Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon sound system (R12 600), Parallel Park Assist, Rear Assist with a rearview camera (R5000), Blind spot monitor with Rear Traffic Alert and Lane Assist with electronically folding side mirrors (R13 700), Travel Assist with Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control (R12 500), IQ.Drive Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking System (R12 000) as well as the Black Performance Package with drift mode, an increased top speed of 270 km/h and black 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels (R27 400).

How much will the VW Golf 8 R cost in South Africa?

Volkswagen Golf 8 R 2.0 TSI 235 kW DSG R912800

The new Golf 8 R will be sold with a 3year/120000 km warranty, 5 year/ 100 000 km EasyDrive Maintenance Plan with service intervals every 15 000 km.

Are you prepared to pay R1-million for the new VW Golf 8 R?

Buy a used VW Golf R on Cars.co.za

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