New 2025 Volkswagen Golf R scores more power and a tech update to fend off rivals like the Mercedes-AMG A35, Mini JCW and Honda Civic Type R

The spiciest version of one of the world’s most enduring nameplates just got a little hotter, with the facelifted Mk8.5 Golf R scoring a power boost and new tech upon the Golf’s 50th anniversary.

The 2025 Volkswagen Golf R has been revealed globally after the Golf 8.5 debuted at the start of 2024. The overall model facelift is set to land in Australia from 2025 onwards but there’s no word yet on local timing for the hot R variant.

The headline changes to the R hatch include a power bump up of 10kW and torque of 20Nm, a revamped multimedia setup inside, new wheels plus a more aggressive version of the overall redesign applied to the Golf 8.5.

The power increase means the Golf R’s EA888 turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine now makes 245kW and 420Nm, which is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

VW says the R now hits 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds from standstill, down by 0.2sec, while top speed can be increased by 20km/h to 270km/h by adding the R Performance package. It’s unclear what Volkswagen Australia will offer in terms of specifications and options packs.

Also new for the R are 19-inch ‘Warmenau’ forged alloy wheels, which could become available here as either a replacement or optional alternative to the Estoril wheels currently used for our models. Volkswagen says the Warmenau wheels are 8kg lighter per wheel and more efficiently cool the brakes behind them.

As with the new Golf 8.5, the R will also gain the new IQ.Light LED matrix headlights, as well as a new 12.9-inch multimedia screen inside and an updated steering wheel (with a specific R button for drive modes including Race).

More features and functions have been added to the Golf R to make it a “special experience”, including a higher starting engine speed of 2500rpm if the start button is held down before ignition, while the Akrapovic exhaust sound has been given more bark. Racecar-style backfire can be coaxed out from engine speeds above 2500rpm.

At launch overseas, the Golf R can be ordered in Black Edition with design changes like darker badges, black brake callipers, black 19-inch Estoril wheels and black exhaust tailpipes. It also includes the R Performance pack, though again isn’t certain to be offered in Australia.

The VW Golf R currently sells for $70,590 here in Australia, but expect that price to increase at some point with the arrival of the updated Mk8.5 Golf R next year.