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.
According to a Reuters report, South Africa is engaged in discussions with Chinese automotive manufacturers to encourage local investment, with at least one company showing considerable interest in establishing production facilities in the country, a senior government official revealed on Wednesday.
Nissan says the latest wave of launches from the brand in South Africa supports Nissan’s long-standing commitment to the country, underpinned by more than 60 years of local presence.
The stories shared at the 2025 Tata Dealer Conference in South Africa, weren’t just tales of sales success. They were case studies in how local business development happens when a network is built on mentorship, innovation and long-term commitment and partnerships.
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Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
Nissan says the latest wave of launches from the brand in South Africa supports Nissan’s long-standing commitment to the country, underpinned by more than 60 years of local presence.
Daimler Truck South Africa (DTSA) hosted its biggest event of 2025 – “The Daimler Truck Experience”, under the theme “For All Who Keep Africa Moving” at the Gerotek Testing Facility in Pretoria.
Tata’s passenger vehicles made a return to the South African market with some interesting models. Let’s take a closer look at what is available and at what price.
