The all-new Golf R promises to be the coolest little hot hatch in its class. Not because of the size of its wing, but due to features like Drift Mode and the optional Akrapovic exhaust system, both of which are showcased to perfection in the following video.
YouTuber Automann-TV has already shown the acceleration of the 315 horsepower (320 PS) Golf R in a previous video we shared. As impressive as the 0 to 62 time was, we felt that the Drift Mode was more important.
It seems Volkswagen may have peeked at the homework of the old Ford Focus RS, because the new AWD system comes with a mode that sends more of the power to the rear wheels. As you'll see in the beginning of the video, this results in a more tail-happy nature than we've come to expect. Now, it's yet unclear if the Golf will do donuts like the Ford, but at least it will be more fun.
From what we understand, the Drift setup is part of the optional Performance Package, which also adds Track Mode. This was developed at the Nürburgring and sharpens the throttle response while slackening the aggression of the dampers. Prices in Germany for this car start from €48,000 (about $58,500 at the current exchange rates), and you're adding another €2,200 ($2,680) just so the Golf can wiggle its tail.
The main focus of the video is the Akrapovic exhaust system. This is another option, featuring quad tips with little dimples on the inside and a titanium build. The quality and sound are excellent, but Volkswagen charges €3,700 ($4,510) for this feature. Sports exhaust systems have been getting quite expensive in Europe recently, but you can probably buy a set of Milltek or Supersprint mufflers for about half that.
The first Golf R in America was the R32 in 2004, featuring a 3.2-liter six-cylinder. We still think that thing sounds better than any four-cylinder, and you can probably find one of those classic toys for less money than a 2022 Golf R.
Update: We've added more footage of "Drift Mode." That's a lot of tail-sliding for a Golf, and it's every bit as good as the drift setup on the AMG A45 S with a bit less power, obviously.
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. Full profile
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