Volkswagen Canada has ushered in the Golf R 20th Anniversary Edition, a globally acclaimed model saluting two decades of the high-performance all-wheel-drive Golf lineage. The series, which started in Europe with the Golf R32 in 2002, has become a mainstay of Volkswagen’s lineup. This special edition is not only a nod to the past but also a significant step into the future, boasting around 500 units for the Canadian market.
Building on the platform of the latest generation Golf R, the 20th Anniversary Edition takes advantage of Volkswagen’s leading-edge MQB chassis and a turbocharged 315 horsepower EA888 evo4 TSI engine. The North American market enjoys a unique advantage with the model being offered with a choice of either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, a feature distinctive to this continent.
The exterior of the Golf R 20th Anniversary Edition holds unique features that make it stand out without forsaking the renowned elegance of the Golf R. The car’s large 19-inch Estoril wheels, finished in Gloss Black, are complemented by 235/35 summer performance tires. A panoramic power sunroof comes standard on all 20th Anniversary models, while the integrated torque vectoring all-wheel-drive system couples with an advanced DCC adaptive damping system, ensuring power distribution aligns with driving conditions.
Subtle, yet impactful aesthetic details accentuate the special edition's uniqueness. Depending on the colour – Lapiz Blue Metallic, Deep Black Pearl, or Pure White – the mirror caps are finished in either Lapiz Blue or Gloss Black. Further, the "R" logos on the front and rear bumpers and front fenders don a special blue colour, as do the badges on the B-pillars that celebrate the 20th Anniversary.
Within the cabin, the legacy of high performance is echoed. Genuine carbon fibre décor inserts grace the dash panel and front door trim, a first for any Volkswagen production vehicle. This high-performance ambiance is subtly reminded by the key fob, featuring a blue-finished “R” logo, specific to the 20th Anniversary Edition.
The Golf R 20th Anniversary Edition is already available for purchase, with the manual transmission model priced at $50,995 and the 7-speed DSG model at $52,395. For those longing for a unique fusion of performance and sophistication, Volkswagen Canada's latest offering presents an exciting opportunity.