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2015 Volkswagen Golf R Variant Launched in Japan with 280 HP

This week, Volkswagen Japan organized a national media launch event for the all-new Golf R Variant. It's the fastest estate they've ever made, but the output of the engine has been reduced to comply with local regulations.
2015 Volkswagen Golf R Variant 17 photos
Photo: Volkswagen
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In Europe, the same car packs a 300 PS version of the 2-liter TSI turbo. However, the Japanese are only allowed to sample 280 PS at a time. Torque remains the same at 380 Nm (38.7 kgm) available from 1,800 rpm.

Since this is such a niche car, the Golf R Variant is almost uncontested. However, Subaru has a very nice sports 5-door with a big boot called the Levorg, which is also available with a 300 horsepower 2-liter Boxer engine.

The Golf R Variant starts in Japan at 5.59 million yen, but the first 100 examples will belong to the "Launch Edition" range and cost 5.82 million. Adding options can, of course, increase the price even further. For example, buyers can order Oryx White Mother of Pearl paint or 64,800 yen. The interior is pretty much the same as on the regular Golf R, with highlights that include illuminated door sills, Alcantara sport seats and the exclusive Driving Profile Selector which enables the car to go entirely berserk in race mode or be all relaxed.

Standard equipment includes a six-speed DSG gearbox, full-time all-wheel drive, 18-inch wheels, quad exhaust, 20mm lower sports suspension and R-specific leather seats. The major advantage offered is that while Golf R Variant is very fast, it can also prove practical. With the rear seats folded flat, the standard cargo space of 605 liters is extended to 1,620 liters.

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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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