The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R has Joined the Ranks of Serious Performance Cars | MotorWeek Track Test

More than any other brand over the decades, Volkswagen has proven that you don’t have to spend a whole lot of money to have a whole lot of driving fun. But, after experiencing their R32's and legendary Golf R's, we realized they had a far more serious side as well. Well now, it’s time for us to get down to business again with a track test of the latest Mark VIII Golf R.

Follow MotorWeek on social media:

[spinningbacksidekick]

A VW Golf gets up to 60 in 4 seconds. A Golf. The successor to the original Beetle. Insane.

[rootsmanuva]

The EA888 motor is a gem. It’s not the most characterful and it’s peak numbers aren’t exactly standout. It’s a gem because it makes useable thrust EVERYWHERE in the rev band. It’s smooth and refined, easily gets 30-35 mpg if you drive like a normal person and it has longevity. If the EA888 is unreliable why would VW still be using it’s basic design since 2008? No engine is perfect but it’s internals are durable as hell.

[MarkMeadows]

I still like the older Golf R32 MK4. I always love the sound of that VR6 engine.

[oldtwinsna]

Been watching MW since the 80s and this kind of performance numbers back in the day was just unimaginable coming from a production car inflation adjusted at this non-exotic price.

[revelare_xvii]

*0-60 in 4.1 seconds is ungodly fast for a factory hot hatch.*

[happy_camper]

The only thing I don’t like is the terrible screen interface. I would much prefer traditional switches in the dash to perform basic tasks…

[CarStory]

4.1 Seconds to 60 is as fast as a Tesla Model 3 Long Range! Very Impressive!

[mbox]

I love how you took the plastic cover off the engine

[thegrandestcherokee]

the feeling of a third pedal and a stick have always part of the golf driving experience, I wouldn't want an automatic in one. I am impressed with the way the new drive modes handle on the new golf either way, 100% of torque being where you need it is very nice.

[oreally]

A 12 second Golf has been the dream of every Golf tuner.

[serjiang]

Oh damn! 12.5 quarter mile. That’s Corvette territory not long ago.

[harisjaved]

Thank you! This thing is sooo good! I saw one yesterday and wanted to buy it. Maybe In next two years I might get one of these as a second fast car.

[fugginrambo]

12.5 in the quarter at 111mph is faster than a Dodge Viper in the mid 90's!

[jbar_]

That blue paint is beautiful! I would be getting tickets left and right lol!

[josemontano]

I really want this car. Not the new Z not the Supra not the STI/WRX this is the one I want in my garage.

[jonhug]

I had a 19’ GTI Rabbit edition in Candy White with the 6 speed. It was a great car for everyday use for sure. Also a super handsome car with an upmarket feel in the cabin. However, I had the car for about 6 months and I became bored with the performance so I took it to VW and got an APR tune pushing it north of 300 HP BUT THAT just added wheelhop. This MK 8 R just might be the answer to my performance desires. Car is fast!

[notoymotorme]

This car weighs 3400 lbs. Has way more than 315 hp. More like 375. What's the boost level on this car? Your results may not be the same!!!

[lglg]

Great job
From Argentina 🇦🇷
Keep it up

[gti]

The performance yes! The exterior and infotainment...sub-par.

[itsbtunes]

I feel like people don't realize how nice hatchbacks are for everyday use until they actually own one.