2022 Volkswagen Golf R Review
2022 Volkswagen Golf R Review
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The latest Golf R is quick and fun to drive but hasn't lost the cool, understated charm that defines a Volkswagen hatchback. It's pricey compared to some rivals, but you're getting plenty of performance in the deal. Great cars tend to be focused; the Golf R is a wonder because it seems to be good at near everything. We just wish Volkswagen would rethink its cumbersome in-car tech.
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2022 Volkswagen Golf R Review
byAlex Nishimoto
Correspondent
Alex Nishimoto has worked in the automotive industry since 2007 and has written more than 2,500 car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Alex is a correspondent for Edmunds and has also written for MotorTrend, Automobile, Hot Rod, Super Street, CNET, PRI Magazine, AutoWise and other publications. When he’s not writing about cars, he’s wrenching on his E30-generation BMW 325is, which he’s owned since college and plans to restore one day.
Pros
- Exhilarating hot hatch performance
- Utility of a hatchback
- Smooth ride and comfortable seats
- Comes well stocked with standard features
Cons
- Touch-sensitive controls are frustrating and distracting to use
What's new
- Redesigned for 2022
- 315 horsepower from turbocharged four-cylinder engine
- Torque-vectoring AWD system for improved handling
- Launches the third Golf R generation for 2022 (eighth-generation Golf platform)
Overview
After taking two years off, Volkswagen's hottest hatch returns to the U.S. market. The Golf R and its GTI sibling are the sole eighth-generation Golf variants to make it across the pond since the standard Golf has been discontinued for the U.S. Just as before, the Golf R is a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive version of VW's iconic hatchback. For 2022, its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine now makes 315 horsepower, up 27 hp from the previous generation. The extra power and torque are immediately noticeable, and the R rushes to its 7,000-rpm redline from anything above 4,000 rpm quicker and with far more gusto than the GTI.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$236/mo for Golf R Base
Golf R Base
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Compact Car
The Golf R also has a new all-wheel-drive system. In addition to the expected weather-beating and traction-enhancing abilities, the Golf R's new system has torque-vectoring capability at the rear wheels. It automatically shifts more engine torque to the outside rear wheel when turning to make the car more agile. There's even a special Drift mode that sends all of the available rear power to one wheel to let you do some nifty tail-out power slides (when you're on a racetrack, of course).
We like the Golf R's standard Driver Cockpit digital instrument panel, but the rest of the new interior lacks the more upscale feel of previous R models. The center stack's streamlined interface looks cool, but every physical control has been replaced with either a wonky touch-sensitive pad or a menu in the infotainment display. These changes are initially maddening, and the frustration is only mildly toned down once you get used to everything. We get that touch controls represent a neat leap forward, but fussing with a touch-sensitive temperature slider while trying to keep your eyes on the road simply isn't intuitive or safe enough.
As with previous incarnations, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is a bit of a niche choice. It offers superior performance and utility compared to the Honda Civic Si and Subaru WRX, but at a higher price. Alternatively, you might cross-shop it with luxury picks such as the related Audi S3 or the Mercedes-Benz CLA AMG 35. Either way we think the Golf R is a solid choice if you want a fun-to-drive compact that's also a great all-arounder.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Great
8.3
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The latest Golf R is quick and fun to drive but hasn't lost the cool, understated charm that defines a Volkswagen hatchback. It's pricey compared to some rivals, but you're getting plenty of performance in the deal. Great cars tend to be focused; the Golf R is a wonder because it seems to be good at near everything. We just wish Volkswagen would rethink its cumbersome in-car tech.
Rated for you by America's best test team.Performance
9.0/10
How does the Golf R drive? The Golf R uses one of the best turbocharged four-cylinder engines around. Our automatic-equipped Golf R test car ripped from 0 to 60 mph in a scant 4.3 seconds and cleared the quarter mile in 12.7 seconds at 108.3 mph. Those are outstanding acceleration times for a hot hatch or compact performance sedan. The engine is powerful and smooth, and the dual-clutch transmission's shifts feel far more refined than those from traditional automatics in some rivals.
Braking and handling impressed too. The Golf R stopped from 60 mph in just 105 feet and pulled 0.99 g on the skidpad, again among the best we've ever seen from any compact. The standard adaptive suspension does a wonderful job of keeping body motions well in check, and standard all-wheel drive means traction is never an issue. The car feels light and nimble thanks to that well-tuned suspension as well as responsive steering that translates more road feel than the closely related Volkswagen GTI. It's not the sharpest or most dynamic car in its class, but it's not too far off the benchmark. Some editors found the steering to be a bit heavy in Sport mode, but it lightens up at low speeds, which makes the Golf R a breeze to park.
Braking and handling impressed too. The Golf R stopped from 60 mph in just 105 feet and pulled 0.99 g on the skidpad, again among the best we've ever seen from any compact. The standard adaptive suspension does a wonderful job of keeping body motions well in check, and standard all-wheel drive means traction is never an issue. The car feels light and nimble thanks to that well-tuned suspension as well as responsive steering that translates more road feel than the closely related Volkswagen GTI. It's not the sharpest or most dynamic car in its class, but it's not too far off the benchmark. Some editors found the steering to be a bit heavy in Sport mode, but it lightens up at low speeds, which makes the Golf R a breeze to park.
Comfort
8.0/10
How comfortable is the Golf R? The Golf R's adaptive suspension dampers help improve not only handling but ride comfort too. There's a distinct difference between Comfort and Sport settings, though the latter is still reasonably compliant. The Golf R's seats are also great. They offer excellent support, with fixed bolsters that hug without squeezing too tight. The front seats are both heated and ventilated; the rear outboard seats are heated too. Padding in both rows is supportive but not overly firm.
The Golf R is relatively quiet, with only a mild amount of wind and road noise at highway speeds. The exhaust is adjustable, though even in its loudest setting you won't have trouble talking to your passengers. The exhaust note is beefy for a four-cylinder engine, and there's a lovely bit of turbo whine at full blast.
Our biggest complaint is the car's climate control system. While the standard three-zone automatic climate control is a plus, controlling and adjusting the setting can be cumbersome and frustrating. In fact, you can't even see the capacitive touch controls at night as Volkswagen (incorrectly) believed it didn't need backlighting. Using voice commands is a crutch, not a solution. At least the air conditioning blows cold.
The Golf R is relatively quiet, with only a mild amount of wind and road noise at highway speeds. The exhaust is adjustable, though even in its loudest setting you won't have trouble talking to your passengers. The exhaust note is beefy for a four-cylinder engine, and there's a lovely bit of turbo whine at full blast.
Our biggest complaint is the car's climate control system. While the standard three-zone automatic climate control is a plus, controlling and adjusting the setting can be cumbersome and frustrating. In fact, you can't even see the capacitive touch controls at night as Volkswagen (incorrectly) believed it didn't need backlighting. Using voice commands is a crutch, not a solution. At least the air conditioning blows cold.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The same capacitive touch controls that make the climate control system so frustrating plague the rest of the car, too. Outside of the window switches, there really aren't any actual buttons. We accidently turned on the heated steering wheel multiple times when a palm grazed the capacitive control in a tight turn. The volume control on the wheel can be pressed or used as a slider, but it doesn't work great at either.
Fortunately, the rest of the interior is much better. The front seat is spacious in all directions, and the driver's seat offers enough adjustment so that it doesn't take long to dial in a comfortable position. The rear is comfortable for adults, but there are more spacious compacts in this class, and the center tunnel makes the middle seat a bit useless. The doors open wide, and the small footprint makes getting in and out a nonissue. The Golf R's upright cabin and narrow pillars help make for great outward visibility, though the side mirrors are on the smaller side.
Fortunately, the rest of the interior is much better. The front seat is spacious in all directions, and the driver's seat offers enough adjustment so that it doesn't take long to dial in a comfortable position. The rear is comfortable for adults, but there are more spacious compacts in this class, and the center tunnel makes the middle seat a bit useless. The doors open wide, and the small footprint makes getting in and out a nonissue. The Golf R's upright cabin and narrow pillars help make for great outward visibility, though the side mirrors are on the smaller side.
Technology
9.0/10
How’s the tech? All Golf Rs come standard with a 10-inch touchscreen display and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, both of which allow for some customization. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard and have wireless connectivity, though you can still connect your phone directly using one of the USB-C ports. A wireless charging pad is also standard.
Thankfully, the touchscreen's controls work better than the capacitive touch ones, though the menu system isn't always the most intuitive. While it can occasionally lag, the built-in navigation system works well for the most part. The map is clear and easy to navigate, and it's easy to input directions using the screen or voice commands. The latter works better than most in this class and can also be used to do things such as adjust the radio or climate control system.
Volkswagen includes a whole suite of driver aids on the Golf R, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and lane keeping assist. All work well, with straightforward controls and no false positives or overly sensitive beeps. Even better, adaptive cruise control is available with the manual transmission.
Thankfully, the touchscreen's controls work better than the capacitive touch ones, though the menu system isn't always the most intuitive. While it can occasionally lag, the built-in navigation system works well for the most part. The map is clear and easy to navigate, and it's easy to input directions using the screen or voice commands. The latter works better than most in this class and can also be used to do things such as adjust the radio or climate control system.
Volkswagen includes a whole suite of driver aids on the Golf R, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and lane keeping assist. All work well, with straightforward controls and no false positives or overly sensitive beeps. Even better, adaptive cruise control is available with the manual transmission.
Storage
8.0/10
How’s the storage? The Golf R has a reasonably large cargo area, with 19.9 cubic feet of space with the seats up and 34.5 cubes with the 60/40-split rear seats folded down. The cargo floor is low and wide, and the rear seats fold nearly flat. The upright rear window helps with taller items, as does the height-adjustable rear load floor. Storage in the front of the cabin is equally impressive, with large door pockets, adjustable (if somewhat awkward) front cupholders, and a bin in front of the shifter for your phone or sunglasses. The rear door pockets are sizable, too, and there are three map pockets on the back of each front seat.
The Golf R has easily accessible Isofix anchors on the outboard rear seats, though you do need to remove the cargo cover to access the seatback anchor. The doors open reasonably wide, and the tall, flat roof means there's space to move around. Larger seats may require scooting up the front seat a bit.
The Golf R has easily accessible Isofix anchors on the outboard rear seats, though you do need to remove the cargo cover to access the seatback anchor. The doors open reasonably wide, and the tall, flat roof means there's space to move around. Larger seats may require scooting up the front seat a bit.
Fuel Economy
8.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The automatic-equipped Volkswagen Golf R gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Opting for the six-speed manual drops the estimate down to 23 mpg combined. The automatic rating is better than most rivals no matter the transmission, and few manual transmissions exceed what the Golf R can do. On Edmunds' 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route, we saw the Golf R automatic turn in an impressive 29.3 mpg.
Value
7.5/10
Is the Golf R a good value? The Golf R is pricey compared to a regular Golf GTI, but there's value here. It comes loaded with standard equipment and has zero options beyond paint color and your choice of transmission. Overall build quality is excellent, and the interior gives off a premium feel you won't find in other hot hatches or sport compacts. There's more hard plastic inside than other cars in the mid-$40,000s, but it's an OK trade-off considering the car's performance.
Volkswagen offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty, which is average for this class. You also get three years/36,000 miles of roadside assistance and two years/24,000 miles of included maintenance.
Volkswagen offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty, which is average for this class. You also get three years/36,000 miles of roadside assistance and two years/24,000 miles of included maintenance.
Wildcard
9.0/10
The Golf R has been somewhat understated. Older models were distinct enough from the base Golf that you could tell it was something special but not so flashy that it would draw your attention. That's true of the eighth-generation model, too, though Volkswagen has added a bit more spice this go-around. It's sharp and sporty, with more aggressive front and rear fascias than before. The rear wing has grown in size but is still relatively subtle. It looks and feels a bit more grown-up than either the Civic Type R or Elantra N.
Which Golf R does Edmunds recommend?
You don't have to waste any time deciding which Golf R is right for you because there's just one trim level. As much as we'd like to recommend the manual transmission, we advise that you get the optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for its lightning-quick gear changes and intelligent shift programming.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R models
The 2022 Golf R comes in one fully loaded trim. The only choice you need to make is between the standard six-speed manual transmission and the optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Feature highlights include:
Golf R
Comes standard with:
- Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (315 hp and either 280 lb-ft of torque with the manual or 295 lb-ft with the automatic)
- All-wheel-drive system with rear-axle torque vectoring
- Adaptive suspension system
- 19-inch alloy wheels with performance tires
- Golf R-specific grille, bumpers, badging, side trim & exterior cladding
- Chrome quad exhaust tips
- Automatic adaptive LED headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated and ventilated leather front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Three-zone climate control
- Adjustable ambient interior lighting
Tech features include:
- Nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
- 10-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (with wireless connectivity)
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line on the windshield)
- Parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
The Golf R also comes with Volkswagen's IQ.Drive suite of advanced driver aids that bundles:
- Lane keeping assist (steers the Golf R back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Volkswagen and the car in front; enhanced stop-and-go functionality with automatic transmission only)
- Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
- Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
2.5 out of 5 stars2.5/5Average
#46 out of 46 among Compact Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Volkswagen Golf R from 2008-2022.$884/yr
vs. $416/yr
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.54x/yr
vs. 1.01x/yr
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).18%
vs. 10.4%
for Average Compact Car
for Average Compact Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2022 Volkswagen Golf R.
5 star(60%)
4 star(20%)
3 star(20%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
5 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
Hottest hatch needs a software update!
Fred Mephisto, 11/17/2022
2022 Volkswagen Golf R 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
To me this is one of the most enjoyable cars to drive in the real world. Super snappy acceleration, AWD is glued to the road, quiet (but can give some pop and rumble if you like), it is just pure fun to tear around town. Seats are really comfortable and I think the overall appearance of the exterior is spot on, especially in the blue.
There was a recall to remove the plastic engine … cover as apparently it could come dislodged, but honestly I prefer to see the engine anyway. The VW luggage rack accessory kit is a perfect fit and works great so far. I am not positive but I strongly suspect a large number of this model coming to this
The real Achilles' heel of the 2022 Golf R is the in-dash system. Lots of annoyance here. A variety of problems relating to connecting our phones (pixel) and using Android auto. Connects and drops bluetooth over and over, can't decide which phone to use, has to be plugged in AND connected via bluetooth. (Which I believe is an Android auto issue, but I additionally purchased Motorola MA1 adapter which I also can not get to work in the R, however haven't tried on another vehicle.) Slow system boot. Occasional total audio failure requiring ignition cycle to fix. Always fun get into a hot car and wait for a boot process to complete before you can turn on a fan...
Overall, because this is my daily driver, the interface problems definitely dampen the otherwise glowing review I would have here. I'm hoping these are the sorts of things that get corrected with software updates.
5 out of 5 stars
Amazing to drive. The info system you get used to
Time4gary, 04/09/2023
2022 Volkswagen Golf R 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
I hate to say I like commuting - but now getting to drive the R, I actually look forward to commuting. That's certainly new. Such a fun car to drive. The info system isn't the easiest to use - but you get used to it as you learn all the shortcuts. Watching so many R reviews - I was led to think the new info touch interface was an inherently evil force in the world. It ain't that bad … - It could be better in some ways, but it has a lot to offer. Once you learn all you can do with it you can see how you can integrate your own personality into your car. I got a used 2019 R. That car was very nice but had issues so I got rid of it and went for a band new one. The new one drives noticeably better. I did get a new set of tires 235/40-19R vs the 235/35-19R that come new on it. After only a week I got a flat hitting a very small pot hole so got a second set of slightly less sporty but more robust Michelin Pilot tires with a taller sidewall.
5 out of 5 stars
Ignore bandwagon infotainment reviews!
MK8R, 12/31/2023
2022 Volkswagen Golf R 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
Don’t let these reviewers who spend 10 minutes trying to figure out the infotainment, sway you in their decision. Find out for yourself. It’s a NON issue. I’ve had my ‘22 R since Feb. ‘22 and I have never accidentally turned on the heated steering wheel. I can see it being possible if you drive with your palms flat gripping the inner spokes of the wheel. The volume and radio sliders on … the wheel are also way easier than actual buttons….try them and you will be surprised. Also the climate control complaints are vastly exaggerated. I set the temp when I first got the car and have not even touched them since. It works that well. The defroster, front and rear are on the lighted headlight switch area. Anything relating to vision is located there. Tons of shortcuts to you can customize. The “reviewers” all cry about a the 7 step process to turn off traction control……I swipe down from the top to open the shortcut and then tap off! Finally they recommend the manual….although a cool bit of nostalgia, you are buying a considerably slower car. The same car with the DSG is 1 full second quicker to 60 mph and the 1/4 mile. The manual is unremarkable and they haven’t advanced or improved it in many years. With the manual, the competition can hang with you, with the DSG, they do not stand a chance.
5 out of 5 stars
Best all around hatch!
T, 01/08/2023
2022 Volkswagen Golf R 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
The touch controls you adjust to fairly quickly, it has a great on road feeling and great acceleration. I do hope that they give everyone a software update on the infotainment but other than that I love it.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R videos
DRAG RACE! 2022 Hyundai Veloster N vs. 2022 VW Golf R | 0-60, Horsepower, U-Drag & More!
The funky Hyundai Veloster N and all-new Volkswagen Golf R go head-to-head in our U-Drags series! In this video, the front-wheel-drive 2022 Hyundai Veloster N takes on the all-wheel-drive 2022 Volkswagen Golf R in a drag race battle of very different hot hatches. Will the Golf R’s 315… horsepower and all-wheel drive be enough to offset its heavier weight compared to the 275-horsepower Veloster N? Head to the video above to find out!
2022 Golf R Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $44,090 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $236/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 19.9 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Golf R models:
- Forward Collision Warning
- Warns you if you're in danger of hitting the car in front and automatically applies the brakes if you don't react quickly enough.
- Active Blind Spot Monitor
- Alerts you if a car is in your blind spot and steers you back into your lane if you start to merge.
- Dynamic Road Sign Display
- Uses cameras to read road signs and relays useful information including speed limits to the instrument panel or head-up display.
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