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Volkswagen Golf R hatchback (2009)

1. Exterior
In keeping with tradition, the Volkswagen Golf R is subtly totally different from the quality Golf hatchback and GTI. solely aficionados can spot the tweaked headlights and crystal rectifier tail lamps, in conjunction with the dual centrally-positioned exhaust pipes. Bumper-mounted crystal rectifier daytime running lights and large 18-inch or optional  19-inch alloy wheels area unit a lot of of a giveaway to the performance. It couldn’t be a lot of totally different in execution for the Ford Focus RS with its immense wheel arches, bonnet vents and spoiler. This delicate approach is probably going to suit Volkswagen fans higher.

2. Interior
Volkswagen don’t do dangerous interiors, and therefore the Golf R’s isn't any exception. However, this model may be a £30k Golf, and at this value the actual fact it shares most of its interior with a regular Golf could shelve some customers. Points of distinction for the R embrace a flat-bottomed handwheel, blue needles for the gauges, Recaro bucket seats finished in Alcantara (leather is optional) and animal skin trim round the handwheel and equipment lever. solely the Audi S3 will match its quality of end, but the Alfa lover Giulietta Cloverleaf’s cabin is a lot of trendy and feels special.

3. usefulness
Because of its simple machine drive system, the Golf R features a shallower boot, so isn’t quite as sensible as alternative Golf hatchbacks. It will hold 275 litres of bags, that continues to be a good quantity, however seventy five but customary. the main focus RS holds a powerful 385 litres, whereas the Megane Renaultsport car manages 344 litres. Being a Golf, fitting a luggage rack for bikes or additional baggage is straightforward. However, it'll have a fuel consumption penalty. obtainable in three-door and five-door body designs, rear area is sweet enough for 2 adults to take a seat well. The driving position is great, with legion adjustment obtainable.

4. Ride and handling
The Golf R’s simple machine drive system offers the driving force surefooted ability return rain or shine. not like the permanent simple machine drive in an exceedingly Subaru Impreza WRX STI or Mitsubishi Evolution X, the R reverts to being front-wheel drive till it senses the requirement to send power to the rear wheels, saving fuel. There’s actually legion grip, and really very little roll, whereas the ride is as comfy as are often expected from a automotive fitted with such skinny low-profile tyres. The steering lacks feel, however, and it’s not as exciting to drive because the Focus RS or Megane Renaultsport. if truth be told we’re unsure it’s any further fun than the Golf GTI.

5. Performance
Its successor, the Golf R32, had a 3.2-litre V6, that has currently been retired thanks to its high emissions. In its place may be a turbocharged 2-litre with 267bhp, giving 5.5 second 0-62mph acceleration with Volkswagen’s semi-automatic case (DSG) and five.7 second acceleration with a manual five-speed case. It’s actually a good engine, creating the R the quickest Golf in Volkswagen’s history, however it lacks the soul of the V6. With the game button ironed the engine note deepens, and there’s the occasional pop from the exhaust, except for the foremost half it’s a muted engine that works away discreetly, that isn't dissimilar to the Renaultsport Megane, however lacks the fireworks of the main focus RS.

6. Running prices
While the new engine may not sound pretty much as good, it makes up for it by its improved running prices. Its emissions of 199g/km of CO2 area unit low for such a quick machine, and average fuel economy of thirty three.2mpg is pretty sensible, though to attain it, a light-weight right foot is needed. These area unit spectacular cuts from the 257g/km of CO2 and twenty six.4mpg of the manual Golf R32. Insurance cluster thirty six out of fifty can mean a hefty bill, whereas alternative price issues embrace big-ticket tyres and replacement braking and exhaust parts.

7. dependableness
There aren't any common issues best-known with the Golf R and most elements area unit common with alternative tried and tested vehicles within the Volkswagen cluster family. However, Volkswagen as a manufacturer is just middle of the pack of makers within the dependableness Index.

8. Safety
The Golf R performs well here, with seven airbags as customary and a five-star monetary unit NCAP crash check rating. Electronic aids enclosed anti-lock brakes and electronic stability programme.

9. Equipment
While the Golf R is reasonably-equipped as customary, some key things are left on the choices list, despite the Golf’s £30k value. Sports seats, element headlights, CD player with USB and aux inputs, trip laptop, automatic lights and wipers, and tinted rear windows area unit customary. reconciling Chassis management, parking sensors, controller, sat-nav and upgraded Recaro seats area unit dear choices.

10. Why buy?
For the final word Golf, look no additional than the R. It’s elegant, fast and surefooted in nearly any weather.