2023 Volkswagen Golf R Model Information

A stunning athlete with serious muscle, advanced technology, and hatchback practicality, the 2023 Volkswagen Golf R is designed for drivers who want it all. The 2023 model year marks the 20th anniversary of Golf R performance in the U.S. market — and from the moment you set eyes on this sporty hatchback, you can tell that it’s the work of constant refinement and innovation. Learn more about the key features and performance specs for the 2023 VW Golf R using this research guide created by the experts at Team Volkswagen in Merrillville, IN.

Are you ready to experience the 2023 Golf R? Browse our new inventory and set up a test drive with the model you like the best! 

Our team of VW professionals is available to answer any questions. Start the conversation by sending us a message, or call Team Volkswagen at (219) 947-1581. 

Weight & Exterior Build

With its distinctive hatchback silhouette and distinguished design features, the 2023 VW Golf R immediately looks the part of a dynamic performer. Light up the road with automatic LED headlights and LED daytime running lights, and ensure you receive excellent visibility around every corner with an adaptive front lighting system with dynamic cornering lights. Signature details on the 20th Anniversary Edition trim include unique Lapiz Blue accents, “20 Years” mirror puddle lamp projection, and blue “R” logos. Both trim package options roll on 19-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires.

The base curb weight on the 2023 Volkswagen Golf R is 3,404 pounds. 

Other available exterior features for the 2023 VW Golf R include:

• Heated, foldable, power-adjustable side mirrors with position memory and passenger-side auto-tilt function
• Integrated light bar in front grille
• Poor weather lights
• Power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Keyless access

Interior Comfort & Design

From the moment you step inside the 2023 VW Golf R, you’re equipped for a comfortable and connected drive. Find your perfect temperature, no matter the conditions with standard heated and ventilated front seats. The upscale interior comes with standard leather upholstery, and the 20th Anniversary Edition adds genuine carbon fiber interior trim. When you need extra space, fold down the rear seats for up to 34.5 cubic feet of cargo room. 

When it comes to staying in touch with your people, finding your way to the next stop, or monitoring key vehicle information, the Golf R is more than ready to help. Connect your smartphone either wirelessly or via USB using Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™ functionality with App-Connect® to the standard Discover Pro 10.1-inch touchscreen. 

Interior Features

• 12-way power driver’s seat
• Auto-dimming rear view mirror
• Climatronic® Touch three-zone automatic climate control
• Heated second-row outboard seats
• Heated, leather-wrapped multi-function sports steering wheel
• 60/40 split-folding rear seat 

Interior Tech Features 

• Four USB ports
• Harman Kardon® premium audio system
• Head-up display
• Wireless charging
• Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro with 10.25-in. configurable digital instrument display
• SiriusXM® Satellite Radio

Engine Specs & Performance

From the moment you step on the accelerator, you know the 2023 VW Golf R is tuned for exciting performance. Its 2.0L turbocharged engine delivers a robust blend of torque and horsepower, along with ride-lengthening fuel efficiency. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a seven-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission is available. Torque output with the Golf R will depend on the transmission you pick. 

Beyond its pure brawn, the 2023 Golf R boasts plenty of smart performance features. Master tight curves in the road using the standard 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (AWD) with torque vectoring. Depending on your needs, the system can detect and send up to 50 percent of the overall engine power to the rear wheels and distribute up to 100 percent of that power to the left and right rear wheels for optimal performance. You also get a standard Vehicle Dynamic Manager system with the Golf R, which controls the DCC® adaptive chassis control system and XDS+ cross differential — both standard features — for a crisp, confident handling experience. Additionally, you can dial in the handling for your Golf R with selectable driving modes like “drift” or “special” racing modes. 

Engine	2.0L TSI® turbo four-cylinder engine
Horsepower	315 HP
Torque	280 lb.-ft. (manual) / 295 lb.-ft. (automatic)
MPG (Manual)	20 city / 28 hwy
MPG (Automatic)	23 city / 30 hwy

2023 Volkswagen Golf R Horsepower

Rule the road with confidence in the 2023 Volkswagen Golf R, equipped with a stunning 315 horsepower. 

Available Trim Levels

The 2023 VW Golf R is available in two trim levels — the standard Golf R and the commemorative Golf R 20th Anniversary Edition. 

• 2023 VW Golf R — Starting at $44,740 MSRP
• 2023 VW Golf R 20th Anniversary Edition — Starting at $45,390 MSRP

2023 Volkswagen Golf R Safety Features

Support every dynamic drive with standard peace of mind. Every 2023 Volkswagen Golf R comes equipped with a strong selection of advanced safety features. Tech-based options like adaptive cruise control and lane assist help you on longer drives, while light assist and park assist support you throughout your daily routine. 

Available safety features include:

• Rear view camera system
• IQ.DRIVE®
• Travel assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Active blind spot monitor
• Rear traffic alert
• Front assist
• Emergency assist
• Lane assist
• Driver Assistance
• Parking distance control
• Park assist
• Light assist
• Dynamic road sign display