Volkswagen Golf R Performance Pack comes to the UK
£2,300 VW Golf R dynamic updates include new brakes, tweaked suspension and 166mph top speed
Volkswagen has released the Performance Pack for its all-wheel-drive Golf R in the UK as a £2,300 optional extra, having first introduced it to the European market.
In terms of power, the Golf R Performance Pack develops 308bhp. That marks no change over the standard version of the car, though VW did free up an extra 12bhp from the Golf R’s turbocharged 2.0-litre four cylinder when the car was facelifted earlier this year. The 0-62mph time remains at 4.6 seconds, but the 155mph electronic top speed limiter is removed so that the Golf R can now reach 166mph (168mph for the Golf R Estate).
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The Golf R’s from bumper makes use of air curtains for further aerodynamic optimisation. A new lip spoiler is attached to the top of the hatchback roof which VW says produces up to 20kg extra downforce at speed.
The shock absorbers and steering have been tweaked, and the Golf R Performance also gets modified brakes – the 17-inch drilled disks are now clamped down by an R Performance caliper with new brake pads. New lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels are on the options list, alongside semi-slick tyres. Inside, the cabin is trimmed with faux carbon and leather.
Not only can potential customers choose the Performance Pack, but for an additional £2,975, they can spec their Golf R with a titanium exhaust system. Slovenian outfit Akrapovic developed the titanium exhausts, which are 7kg lighter and fitted with valve control technology.
It is mated to the driving mode selector so that when in Sport or Race mode, the exhaust sound is sharper and more raucous, but toned down when in Eco or Normal mode.
Adding the Performance Pack and the titanium exhaust system together will cost £5,275. Should customers opt for both upgrades, the manual Golf R hatchback will cost £37,985 with the seven-speed DSG gearbox coming in at £39,720. The Golf R Estate with Performance Pack and titanium exhaust system will set customers back £40,975 and is only fitted with the dual-clutch 'box.
What do you think of the VW Golf R Performance Pack? Let us know in the comments!
