Along with Volkswagen’s venerable Golf R hot hatch, the larger Tiguan R that shares a similar platform will also be welcomed to Mzanzi in little more than two months’ time. 

Volkswagen South Africa confirmed that the anticipated fifth generation Golf R, using the eighth generation of the Golf platform, will land in South Africa by early October along with the Tiguan R. Both models make use of similar tech and powertrains.

Related: Volkswagen Golf R 20 celebrates two decades of the nameplate 

While the undiluted R model lineup consists of five models and with seven derivatives between them, our market will only continue to receive the Golf R and Tiguan R. What won’t reach our shores within the lineup are the T-Roc R, Golf Estate R, Arteon R, Arteon R Shooting Brake and Touareg R.

The models introduced locally are to aid Volkswagen’s intention to dominate the segments they compete in which includes the A0 Hatch, A0 SUV and A Hatch segments which the German brand enjoys respectable market share in. 

Same tech and powertrain just with a little bit less power than other markets

The EA888 2,0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder motor will find use in both models, although South African specifications will differ slightly from the rest of the international market. Steffen Knapp, Brand Director Volkswagen South Africa, cited poorer quality fuels as the 20 N.m detune from the models sold overseas. 

Nonetheless, the all-wheel drive and highly acclaimed hot-hatch from Wolfsburg will put out 235 kW and 400 N.m which help propel it to a 250 km/h top speed. Its larger sibling includes the same top speed and performance although it will only sprint to 100 km/h in 5,1 seconds as opposed to 4,8 seconds.

Considering the motor has been used venerably in the Volkswagen Group for over a decade, it has undergone some updates to ensure it complies with modern regulations. This includes the latest EU6ZD mandate which enables the EA888 motor to enjoy improved efficiency after white-coats at the R facility put the motor through a regiment of fettling and fine tuning. 

Putting the power down is an updated all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring that is channelled via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. With this technology equipped, the hooligan-oriented Golf R hot-hatch is able to kick the back end out in controlled drifts with a new drift mode sub programmed into the race setting. 

Will this be a million Rand Golf R?

Despite our best efforts to pry at prospective pricing for the Golf R, this information will only be presented once it touches down in South Africa in early October. Considering both the standard SUV and FWD GTI hot-hatchback come in at just under a smidge below R700 000 in their top level of trim, it is highly possible that the full-fat R derivatives of each will be snapping at the heels of a 6 figure price tag or even possibly beyond. To this end, hopefully that milestone price tag means that the respective models will be brimmed to capacity with options. 

Speaking of options, both the Golf R and Tiguan R can be specified with an Akrapovic exhaust system and larger diameter rims to match the sportier stance of the cars that they are installed on. More conclusive information and pricing on the models will be shared at their launch.