After 34 years and nearly 1.87 million engines built, Volkswagen has officially retired the iconic VR6.
Volkswagen has officially said goodbye to the iconic VR6 engine, marking the end of an era for fans of this unique six-cylinder powerhouse. After 34 years and nearly 1.87 million units produced, the final VR6 rolled off the assembly line on December 12, 2024. It’s a bittersweet farewell to an engine that brought performance, character, and a distinctive sound to so many Volkswagen models.
The VR6 made its debut in 1991 at the Geneva Motor Show, first appearing in the Passat. Its innovative design combined elements of a traditional V-6 and an inline-six, featuring a narrow 10.5- to 15-degree cylinder angle and a single cylinder head. This compact setup allowed it to fit into smaller engine bays, making it ideal for cars like the Corrado, Golf, and Jetta. At a time when a six-cylinder Golf was unheard of, the VR6 elevated Volkswagen’s performance credentials and widened the gap between the brand and its rivals.
Over the years, the VR6 powered a long list of Volkswagen vehicles, from the sporty Golf R32 and the collectible New Beetle RSi to practical models like the Touareg and Phaeton. It wasn’t limited to VW’s lineup, either. Audi, Porsche, SEAT, Škoda, and even Mercedes-Benz used the VR6 in various models, and it found its way into forklifts and Winnebago RVs. Its versatility and unique sound made it a favorite among enthusiasts and a key part of Volkswagen’s identity.
In the U.S., the VR6 bowed out after the 2023 model year with the Atlas, where its 3.6-liter version produced 276 horsepower. In China, it continued powering models like the Audi Q6 until recently. However, the shift to turbocharged inline-four engines eventually caught up with the VR6. These smaller, lighter, and more efficient engines are better suited to today’s production and emissions standards, leaving little room for a six-cylinder like the VR6.
Despite its retirement, the VR6 leaves behind a lasting legacy. Whether in a 1990s Golf GTI or a luxury Phaeton, the VR6 delivered a raspy, distinctive exhaust note that modern engines struggle to replicate. It also represented a time when Volkswagen pushed boundaries, creating an engine that combined innovation with practicality.
For those who still dream of VR6 power, there’s hope in the aftermarket. Companies like HPA Motorsports are offering custom builds, including a 550-horsepower VR6 package for the Golf R. Meanwhile, enthusiasts looking for a classic can still hunt down models like the Corrado VR6 or the Golf R32—cars that showcase the engine’s full potential.
As we bid farewell to the VR6, it’s worth raising a glass to an engine that shaped Volkswagen’s history and brought joy to countless drivers. It may no longer be in production, but its legacy will roar on in the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. Farewell, VR6—you’ll be missed.
