Hang on for a moment Golf GTI because the most powerful Golf yet, is now locally available and it is not a GTI.
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).
Price:
The Golf 8 R 2.0 TSI 235kW DSG® costs R912 800.
The South African motor industry has lost one of its longstanding business figures following the passing of Jebb McIntosh, the group chief executive of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“South Africa’s automotive industry has been AGOA’s largest user, but for the sector the preference has already been largely overridden by the 25% Section 232 tariffs applied on vehicles and components. Losing AGOA adds a further cost to an industry that has already absorbed a significant shock.”
Foton has started building vehicles in South Africa, and the first overseas vehicle manufacturing base of BAIC Group is now in Gqeberha.
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