First Turbocharged Golf R
As true as it gets, the Volkswagen Mk6 was the first to introduce a turbocharged engine in the Golf R segment.
The fifth-generation Volkswagen Golf R, also known as the R32, was the last Golf R to sport a naturally-aspirated engine. It used a 3.2L V6 that generated 250 horsepower and sent power to all four wheels. The sixth-generation Golf R’s engine was downsized and gained forced induction. Although you find forced induction 4-cylinder engines that are not great, the powertrain that Mk6 offers is exceptional.
The distinctive engine
The sixth-generation Golf R was powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produced more power than its predecessor and was super fun to handle. The turbo-four generates 256 horsepower and 243-pound feet of torque and as with previous Golf R models, all four wheels receive the power.
Volkswagen Mk6 Golf R performance figures
And to put in some numbers, this vehicle can attain the 0-60 sprint from a standstill in less than 6 seconds and has an electronically-limited top speed of 127 MPH. The car was designed for handling tight bends and has a ride height that dropped by 25mm compared to an Mk6 Golf GTI. The brakes are impressive, and feature 345mm discs up front with “R” monogrammed calipers.
The Mk6 Volkswagen Golf R’s exterior details
The Mk6 Golf R has a few key characteristics that distinguish it from other Golf 6 models. Its large dual-exit exhausts and LED taillights are particularly eye-catching. The exterior chrome is replaced with black accents giving the car more of an understated look compared to the outgoing Golf R.
Is the Mk6 a hot hatch?
However, first, comes a question about what a hot hatch is. To answer that question, a hot hatch is simply a high-performance hatchback. And the relevance to the statement, the Volkswagen Mk6 Golf R is a stick shift hot hatch. Although, all Golf R models to this day feature a manual transmission, which provides the driver with an uncanny fun factor. The Mk6 Golf R has a slick 6-speed stick shift gearbox, which makes the German-built hot hatch all the more lovable.
Pricing and Affordability
To be honest, no hatchback lover would deny the fact about the affordability of this car. The Mk6 Volkswagen Golf R is less common on the used market than the Mk5 and Mk7 Golf Rs but can still be found. Typically this car sells upwards of $13,00, but it is recommended to spend a bit more for a well-kept model. For example, a 2013 two-door Volkswagen Golf R with just over 100,00 miles on the clock is listed for $15,995.
An Ideal Daily Driver
On books, the Volkswagen Mk6 Golf R weighs 3,354 lbs, despite being small in size which is quite worrisome. However, its exceptional suspension setup, low center of gravity, and all-wheel-drive system allow it to push through corners like a true racer. The car is quick, fun to drive, spacious enough to accommodate up to five people, and usable in all weather conditions, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system. It’s also an excellent sleeper with a design that doesn’t attract unwanted attention.
One of the best Golf R generations ever
Mk6 Volkswagen Golf R is an exception because Golf models don’t typically appreciate unless they have low miles, feature a V6 engine, or were one of the very first Rabbit GTIs. Since it was the first forced-induction-fed Golf R and the last one to feature dual-exit exhausts, there is a strong amount of cult following behind these cars.
Each of the eight generations of the Volkswagen Golf R has its unique quirks and flaws. The latest Mk8 Golf R is a true wolf in sheep’s clothing drifting around corners. However, the Mk6 Golf R paved the way by ditching the naturally-aspirated V6 and heavily influencing the design language of its successors. The fact that it is affordable, honestly makes the deal smoother.
