The German automobile giant, Volkswagen, has been spotted testing the R-spec variants of the Mk8 Golf and Arteon at the Nordschleife. VW already debuted an estate version of the executive saloon this year.
Arteon R
According to various sources, VW was to use the VR6 engine for the Arteon R, with several prototypes utilizing it. Later on, though, they settled for their trustworthy and reliable EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four. In the Arteon R, we can expect an output of 316 hp and 450 Nm of torque.
Predictably, Volkswagen will pair the engine to a seven-speed DSG gearbox — forget about a manual tranny here. Furthermore, the power goes to all four wheels via a Haldex all-wheel-drive system, and a brand-new torque-vectoring rear differential. The ‘Torque-Splitter’ allows almost all of the torque to be transmitted to individual rear wheels. As a result, the system completely changes the driving dynamics of the Arteon R. Simply put, when pushed to the limit, it should handle like a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
The Arteon R tested by Volkswagen features a distinctive exterior with blue paint, new 20-inch’ Estoril’ rims, and an active exhaust system with four pipes. Inside the cabin, an R-flavoured interior trim with an R-stitched steering wheel, switchgear, and custom paddle shifters really shows the Arteon’s “R” character.
Golf R
VW’s iconic hatch, the Golf, is one of the best-selling vehicles in Europe and reached its 8th generation update. The R-spec version features a redesigned front end, a tall rear wing, quad exhaust ports, and Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four just like the Arteon R.
Again, Volkswagen will pair the engine to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The Golf R will also get an overhauled all-wheel-drive system with torque-vectoring on the rear wheels.
Other mechanical updates include a better braking setup and a lower sports suspension with adaptive dampers. Volkswagen will probably switch from 18-inch to 19-inch wheels as well.
The stability control will also gain upgrades. Namely, the driver will be able to manually adjust the settings using a rotary dial instead of the classic on/off switch, allowing to fine-tune the stability control system.
The interior trim gets the ‘R’ treatment too with new bucket seats, R-steering wheel, and switchgear. Meanwhile, Volkswagen will add a custom dash with a 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system displaying driver’s information and car controls.
VW has also announced plans of expanding its R line-up to other vehicles in its stable.
As they say, the more, the merrier.
