Review Volkswagen Golf R hatchback

"Cleaner and greener than it's R32 predecessor, the 4MOTION all-wheel drive Golf R is a seriously quick car" Replacing the celebrated Golf R32 the Volkswagen Golf R boasts four-wheel drive and a highly-tweaked version of the previous MkV Golf GTI's turbocharged four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine. Two bodyshells are available, the sporty three-door and practical five-door. Producing 265bhp the Golf range-topper is genuinely sports car fast- the 0-62mph benchmark is despatched in an all-wheel drive assisted 5.7 seconds! Crucially the newly developed engine is cleaner and greener than it's R32 predecessor and the 4MOTION all-wheel drive transmission is very impressive in the corners. Buyers opting for the twin-clutch DSG gearbox will benefit not only from lower fuel consumption but also faster acceleration, although some gear changes are slightly irratic when in fully-automatic 'D' mode. The Golf R represents a more practical choice than the Volkswagen Scirocco R but with the performance to match or even exceed rivals from Renault or BMW. Drive4.8 /5 Impressive four wheel drive system provides almost endless grip Under the bonnet, there's a highly tuned version of the power plant from the previous GTI, rather than the newer model. This results in an impressive 265bhp alongside the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, providing plenty of traction whilst cornering. The steering is nicely weighted and precise while the brakes feel very powerful. Opt for the twin-clutch DSG gearbox and some gear changes are erratic when using the fully automatic 'D' mode. For a performance model it is equally at home cruising at motorway speeds. Comfort4.3 /5 Firm but not uncomfortable Running on stiffer, 25mm lower suspension the R is firm but not uncomfortable. With specially tuned power-steering, the R has a sharper and more direct feel than the lower priced GTI. The seats are firm and supportive and the driving position is easily adjusted to suit all shapes and sizes. Chunky, easy to operate controls add to a driver-focused cabin, particularly when covering long distances. Reliability4.7 /5 Beautifully made and very reliable Like The latest Volkswagen Golf, the R has a full five star Euro NCAP test rating, and debuted at number four out of 100 in the 2010 Driver Power survey, claiming 9th position for Reliability and 15th for build quality along the way. Owners notably praise its perceived quality and braking performance. The R is still relatively new, but as it's based on the same chassis as the previous generation model, all of the mechanicals are tried and tested. Practicality4.6 /5 The Golf is a very practical hatchback The interior will seat four adults in relative comfort – while the figure hugging front seats are supportive. The rear seats are better suited for children though, particularly with limited access to the back of the three-door model. The boot offers a reasonable amount of space, but there's a sizeable lip to lift your luggage over. Value for money4.0 /5 VWs hold their value well Starting at £31,115, the R is hardly cheap but does offer serious performance for the money. It's fitted with new front and rear bumpers complete with LED running lights while Xenon headlights and a new black grille add to the look. The changes continue inside with a set of distinctive aluminium ‘R’ kick plates and new seats finished in grey Alcantara. Thanks to the Golf's desirability in comparison to its mainstream rivals, you’ll also get more for it when you sell it on. The optional Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) is priced at £800. Running costs3.8 /5 Not too painful for a performance model For a performance model emissions are impressive, dropping from 257g/km for the MkV R32 to 199g/km for the lighter Golf R. Fuel economy is up around 4mpg to 33.2mpg for a manual, while fitting the optional twin-clutch DSG transmission bumps this figure up to 33.6mpg.