### Introduction The Volkswagen Golf R is a perennial favorite among enthusiasts, and for good reason. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 328 horsepower, making it a formidable opponent on the track. But can the 2025 model live up to its predecessor's reputation? We took the Golf R to the Virginia International Raceway (VIR) to find out. ### The Test Our test took place on the VIR's 3.5-mile circuit, which includes a mix of fast sweepers, slow hairpins, and technical sections. We used the same driver for both the 2022 and 2025 models, and the results were striking. The 2025 Golf R shaved off a full second from the 2022 model's lap time, thanks in large part to its improved braking performance. ### Braking and Handling The Golf R's all-wheel-drive system is a major contributor to its stability and traction. In low-speed corners, the system allows for smooth, throttle-controlled entry and ...
### Introduction
The Volkswagen Golf R is a perennial favorite among enthusiasts, and for good reason. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 328 horsepower, making it a formidable opponent on the track. But can the 2025 model live up to its predecessor’s reputation? We took the Golf R to the Virginia International Raceway (VIR) to find out.
### The Test
Our test took place on the VIR’s 3.5-mile circuit, which includes a mix of fast sweepers, slow hairpins, and technical sections. We used the same driver for both the 2022 and 2025 models, and the results were striking. The 2025 Golf R shaved off a full second from the 2022 model’s lap time, thanks in large part to its improved braking performance.
### Braking and Handling
The Golf R’s all-wheel-drive system is a major contributor to its stability and traction. In low-speed corners, the system allows for smooth, throttle-controlled entry and exit. However, overcommitting in the braking zones can result in the car leaving the racing line and losing precious time. We found that the 2025 model’s improved brakes gave us more confidence in the corners, allowing us to brake later and carry more speed into the first downhill right, the Roller Coaster.
### Conclusion
The 2025 Volkswagen Golf R is a significant improvement over its predecessor. While the lap time gains may not be shocking, the car’s improved handling and braking performance make it a formidable opponent on the track. With its 13 additional horsepower and refined all-wheel-drive system, the Golf R is a force to be reckoned with. Whether you’re a track enthusiast or a daily driver, the Golf R is a car that demands discipline and respect.
### Technical Details
* Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four
* Power: 328 horsepower
* Weight: 3369 pounds
* Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
* Drive type: All-wheel drive
* Tires: Hankook Ventus S1 evo3 235/35R-19 91Y
* 0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds
* Top speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
* Fuel economy: 24 mpg combined (estimated)
### Description
The 2025 Volkswagen Golf R is a track-focused variant of the popular Golf hatchback. With its 328 horsepower and all-wheel-drive system, it’s a formidable opponent on the track. But it’s not just about raw power – the Golf R’s refined braking performance and handling make it a joy to drive on both the track and the road.
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