Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf VII (5-door, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | R 2.0 TSI (310 Hp) 4MOTION |
| Start of production | February, 2017 |
| End of production | August, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10-10.2 l/100 km (23.5 – 23.1 US mpg, 28.2 – 27.7 UK mpg, 10 – 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5-6.7 l/100 km (36.2 – 35.1 US mpg, 43.5 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.4 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8-8 l/100 km (30.2 – 29.4 US mpg, 36.2 – 35.3 UK mpg, 12.8 – 12.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 177-182 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 215.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 264.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 156.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 2000-5400 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000-5400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJXG |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1438 kg (3170.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 522 kg (1150.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 343 l (12.11 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1233 l (43.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4263 mm (167.83 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2027 mm (79.8 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2626 mm (103.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1533-1549 mm (60.35 – 60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1503-1521 mm (59.17 – 59.88 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 128 mm (5.04 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear driven by clutch. |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8J x 19 |
The Golf VII R, launched in 2017 as part of the facelift for the seventh-generation Golf, represented a significant step up in performance and technology. Built on the MQB platform (specifically the 1HX0/A3 variant), it aimed to deliver a compelling blend of everyday usability and exhilarating driving dynamics. The “R” designation, historically reserved for Volkswagen’s highest-performance models, signified a comprehensive upgrade over the standard Golf, encompassing engine, chassis, and styling enhancements. This model year saw a refinement of the already successful Golf R, with subtle exterior updates and improvements to the interior technology.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Golf VII R lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, specifically the CJXG engine code. This engine is a direct-injection, turbocharged powerplant featuring a sophisticated combination of technologies. It utilizes both direct and multi-port fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine’s cylinder head incorporates a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, maximizing airflow and contributing to its high power output. The turbocharger, equipped with an intercooler, provides significant boost, delivering 310 horsepower at 5500-6500 rpm and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 5400 rpm. The engine’s power is transferred to all four wheels via a standard six-speed manual transmission and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. The 4MOTION system employs a Haldex multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Golf VII R with the manual transmission delivers a thrilling driving experience. The 2.0-liter turbo engine provides strong acceleration, with the car reaching 0-60 mph in approximately 4.8 seconds. The manual gearbox offers precise shifts and allows for greater driver engagement. Compared to lower-powered Golf variants, the R exhibits significantly improved responsiveness and a more aggressive power delivery. While the manual transmission provides a more engaging experience, it does require more driver involvement than the optional dual-clutch gearbox (DSG). The 4MOTION system ensures excellent grip and stability, allowing the driver to confidently exploit the engine’s power even on challenging surfaces. The suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, providing a firm but not overly harsh ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Golf R came generously equipped as standard. Key features included sport seats upholstered in cloth with microfiber inserts, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and stainless steel pedal caps. The infotainment system featured a touchscreen display with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Standard safety equipment included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The interior trim was typically finished with carbon fiber accents, further emphasizing the R’s sporty character.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf R’s chassis was specifically tuned to handle the increased power output. It featured a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and dampers compared to standard Golf models. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut design, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup, providing excellent wheel control and ride comfort. Braking performance was also enhanced, with ventilated discs at all four corners. The R also featured larger brake calipers and rotors compared to other Golf variants, providing increased stopping power and fade resistance. The steering was precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf VII R was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and practicality. It was often compared favorably to rivals such as the Ford Focus RS and the Audi S3. While the Focus RS offered a more raw and visceral driving experience, the Golf R provided a more refined and balanced package. Compared to the standard Golf GTI, the R offered a significant increase in power and performance, along with more aggressive styling and upgraded components. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance hatchback, averaging around 30 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and the DSG transmission (on equipped models).
Legacy
The Golf VII R has established itself as a highly desirable and collectible hot hatch. Its combination of performance, practicality, and refinement has made it a popular choice among enthusiasts. The EA888 engine, in its CJXG iteration, has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant, capable of handling significant power upgrades. On the used car market, well-maintained Golf VII Rs command a premium price, reflecting their performance capabilities and enthusiast following. The Golf R continues to be a benchmark in the hot hatch segment, and the seventh-generation model remains a highly sought-after vehicle.
