2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI Vs. 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
Starting in 2022, the regular Volkswagen Golf hatchback and station wagon models will be discontinued in the USA. In this new era, America will only receive the performance-oriented Golf GTI and Golf R models. Luckily, both of these are truly beloved, highly acclaimed machines.
With the Golf GTI kicking off a new generation and the Golf R making its return to the VW lineup after a brief hiatus, customers keep asking here at Elgin Volkswagen: what’s the difference between the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI and 2022 Volkswagen Golf R?
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R will have a nearly identical interior and similar modern tech to the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI. However, the 2022 Golf R will have more power, standard 4Motion® all-wheel drive, a few extra driving modes, an array of exclusive equipment and some different design details than the 2022 Golf GTI. It will be outfitted with a higher starting price.
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is based on improvements made for the Mk8 Golf GTI.
| 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI | Vs. | 2022 Volkswagen Golf R |
| $30,000 (estimated) | Starting MSRP | $44,000 (estimated) |
| Available | 4Motion® All-Wheel Drive | Standard |
| 241 hp | Horsepower | 315 hp |
| 273 lb-feet | Torque | 310 lb-ft |
| Comfort, Eco, Sport, Individual | Drive Modes | Comfort, Sport, Race, Special, Drift, Individual |
Learn More: What does Mk8 mean in regard to the Golf R?
What unique equipment and stylistic touches come on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R?
Exclusive equipment in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R includes special track-oriented touches, such as a standard rear differential that can distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels at will for improved handling. In addition, there’s the exciting “Drfit” mode listed in the table above.
Unique style touches are also on hand, such as the fact that drivers change drive modes by pressing an “R” icon on the steering wheel. The 2022 GTI gets unique style touches as well, such as iconic plaid seat inserts that are not available in the 2022 Golf R.
Keep Learning: What colors will the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R come in?