Hang on for a moment Golf GTI because the most powerful Golf yet, is now locally available and it is not a GTI.
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Volkswagen’s Golf 8 R hit the local market and will take the top spot in the Golf range, which consists of only two GTI models and now a third model with the arrival of the Golf R.
The manufacturer says production constraints and parts shortages severely derailed plans for the local launch, but the performance range of R vehicles in South Africa will now be extended with the introduction of the new Golf 8 R.
What’s new?
Since the Golf R’s first launch in South Africa in 2007, the hatch has sold close to 6 000 units. The new Golf 8 R’s drive technology tops everything that has been launched in the Golf model range thus far.
At the heart of the new Golf 8 R is the 2-litre 4-cylinder EA 888 engine. The new Golf 8 R accelerates to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. Its top speed is 250 km/h. The Golf 8 R impresses with the combination of 235 kW and torque of 400 Nm plus an all-wheel drive system.
Standard features in the Volkswagen Golf 8 R include mobile inductive charging, a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry with safelock, a ‘Discover Pro’ navigation system, Wireless App-Connect and Voice Control, 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels, Adaptive Chassis Control, including driving profile selection, Light and Vision Package, including light assist, Nappa leather R sport seats as well as a choice of three exterior colours (Pure White, Lapiz Blue metallic and Deep Black Pearl).
Optional features in the Volkswagen Golf 8 R include among others, Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon sound system, Parallel Park Assist, a rear-view camera, Blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert, Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking System as well as the Black Performance Package (which includes drift mode, an increased top speed of 270 km/h and black 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels).
Stellantis has announced the expansion of its dealer network with the introduction of Opel, Peugeot and Citroën at a new McCarthy Kunene in eMalahleni (formerly Witbank), Mpumalanga.
Stellantis has announced the expansion of its multi-franchise dealer network in the Eastern Cape, with the introduction of the Fiat and Jeep brands at Meyers Motors in East London in the Eastern Cape.
More than 40 percent of South Africans are considering purchasing an electrified vehicle (*1) in the next five years according to a recent survey (*2) by Ford Motor Company, with most preferring hybrid technology.
Mercedes-Benz has announced the arrival of the new V-Class V300d EXCLUSIVE in South Africa. Designed for those who appreciate refined quality and a striking presence on the road, the new V-Class combines captivating design, a luxurious interior and first-class comfort, redefining the art of stylish travel.
Kia’s brand-new double cab bakkie, called the Tasman, could be introduced in South Africa as early as the second half of 2025, says Paul Turnbull, CEO of Kia South Africa.