The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is the latest evolution in Volkswagen’s legacy of performance vehicles. This fifth-generation model, which traces its roots back to the 2004 rally-inspired Golf R32, boasts a 315-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a significant upgrade from its predecessor. The Golf R continues to evolve, offering race-inspired features and premium content that set it apart in its class.
The Golf R’s advanced handling features, such as rear-axle torque vectoring and a track-only “Drift” mode, take the driving experience to a new level. The vehicle dynamics system, introduced in the Mk8 Golf family, controls the XDS electronic differential lock and the lateral dynamics of the standard DCC adaptive damping system. These features, combined with the power of the turbocharged engine, make the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R a performance powerhouse.
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The design of the 2022 Golf R is sportier and longer than its predecessor, featuring a completely new electronic architecture. Inside, a digitally-networked world of displays and controls allows drivers to customize their Golf R with more intuition and detail than ever before. Built in Wolfsburg, Germany, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is a testament to Volkswagen’s commitment to performance, innovation, and design.
Exterior Design of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R embodies a subtle yet purposeful design language that communicates its status as a top-tier performance car. It avoids flamboyant styling that doesn’t offer engineering benefits. Despite its performance capabilities, the Golf R is a versatile daily driver, equally comfortable in the school carpool lane as it is on the racetrack.
The MQB Modular Transverse Architecture
The Mk8 Golf R is built on the successful MQB modular transverse architecture, allowing for even sportier proportions. While the wheelbase remains unchanged from the previous generation at 103.5 inches, the car is now longer, measuring 168.9 inches. Standing at 57.7 inches high and 70.4 inches wide, the new Golf R boasts a very low visual center of gravity, achieved through wide air intakes at the front and a striking shoulder line.
Aerodynamics and Performance
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is a testament to the performance capabilities of the MQB modular transverse architecture. Aerodynamicists and designers at Volkswagen collaborated to shape the Golf R in the wind tunnel, where each new body panel was designed for unrestricted airflow. From its aero-optimized exterior mirrors and refined wheel-arch linings to its extensive underbody paneling, the Golf R displays an optimal combination of confident yet mature performance car presence.
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Unique Design Elements of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
Subtle design elements distinguish the new Golf R from its sporty Golf GTI sibling. An accent line in characteristic “R” blue stretches across the grille, continuing through each headlamp and eventually merging with the fenders on the side of the vehicle. An illuminated crossbar underneath gives the Golf R a new and unmistakable light signature.
R-Specific Front Bumper and Rear Design of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The R-specific front bumper features twin intakes framed in gloss black. These integrate seamlessly into a large central opening, providing a uniquely aggressive look while also improving airflow and increasing downforce. The Golf R is fitted with 19-inch black machined aluminum-alloy wheels as standard, fitted with 235/35 summer performance tires. At the rear, the “R” lettering is now positioned under the new Volkswagen brand logo. A slightly extended two-piece rear spoiler provides extra downforce on the rear axle, and a rear diffuser in black neatly frames a quad-tipped exhaust system.
Lighting and Color Options of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The all-new Golf R shows that light is the new chrome with new LED designs both in front and in the rear. At the front, LED projector headlights with Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), Active Cornering Lights, and poor weather lights, pair with the illuminated grille. On the side, matte aluminum-look side mirrors project the “R” logo on the ground when the doors are unlocked, and the door handles now feature illuminated recesses. A newly designed LED rear taillamp cluster finishes the look at the back. The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is available in three colors: Lapiz Blue Metallic, Deep Black Pearl, and Pure White.
Inside the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R: A Blend of Sport and Luxury
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R’s exterior announces its sporting intentions and its completely redesigned interior balances enthusiast-focused features with state-of-the-art technology. The Golf R offers an expansive 91.1 cu-ft of interior room and 19.9 cu-ft of luggage space, rivaling midsize sedans. The trunk floor can be raised or lowered, and the 60:40 split backrest can be folded to give an almost flat cargo area of 34.5 cu-ft, accommodating everything from grocery runs to full-size bicycles.
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Newly Designed Sport Seats
The newly designed sport seats feature integrated head restraints, supportive bolsters, and perforated Nappa leather seating surfaces. The characteristic blue “R” stitched into the backrest, 12-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat, and three memory presets to add to the luxury. The seat side panels and stitching are highlighted with a matching blue, a look that continues to the rear seats. Both front seats are heated and ventilated, and the rear outboard seats are heated.
Driver-Centric Design and Controls
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R’s driver-centric design is evident from the center stack, which is angled slightly towards the driver. The premium performance personality of the Golf R is accentuated with a black headliner, carbon-look trim, backlit buttons and haptic keys, and the use of premium materials throughout. The driver controls are positioned for optimal ergonomics and usability, with a shared digital panel for the driving lights and defrost functions, and touch sliders for the Climatronic automatic climate control and audio volume.
R-Specific Multifunction Sport Steering Wheel of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The R-specific multifunction sport steering wheel is wrapped in leather with perforated inserts and an ergonomic “D” shape. The heated steering wheel features controls for the Digital Cockpit Pro and touchpads for volume adjustment and audio selections. A blue “R” button can be used to quickly put the Golf R into “Race” mode and to shortcut to the Driving Mode Selection screen in the infotainment display. DSG-equipped Golf R models also feature R-specific paddle shifters.
Ambient Lighting and Comfort Features
Ambient lighting comes standard on the Mk8 Golf R, illuminating the interior with thirty selectable colors. The digital instruments and infotainment system also take on the selected background color. Along with individual colors, pre-configured “mood” lighting profiles can be selected. The Golf R is loaded with comfort and convenience features, including Volkswagen’s KESSY keyless access with push-button start, Nappa leather sport seats, a 12-way power driver’s seat with three-position memory, heated and ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, three-zone Climatronic Touch automatic climate control, and a head-up display.
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Panoramic Sunroof and Audio System
An enlarged panoramic power tilt and slide sunroof are now standard, operated by a touch slider at the front of the headliner. To satisfy the audiophile ear, the Golf R features a Harman/Kardon audio system with 480 watts, nine speakers, and a 12-channel amplifier and subwoofer. The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is a testament to Volkswagen’s commitment to performance, innovation, and design.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R: A Blend of Advanced Technology and Performance
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R comes standard with the advanced Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro system. This system offers a fully customizable 10.25-inch display with three views, including full-screen navigation, and 21 viewing options. These options range from car status, navigation, driving data, phone information, driver assistance features, and more.
The R models have a unique graphics layout for the Digital Cockpit, developed by user experience designers. The “R-View” presents a combination of three instruments: the rev counter with the “R” logo in the center, and two customizable instruments. These can be configured to show the engine’s boost pressure or the current power output. The tachometer can be displayed centrally in analog format, or horizontally at the top edge of the display in digital format.
When the manual DSG mode is activated, this display provides easily visible shift recommendations for the track-only Special and Drift modes. The Digital Cockpit Pro in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R can display a variety of data such as the relative boost pressure, oil temperature, torque, power, a G-meter, the torque distribution of the all-wheel-drive system, and a lap timer for track work.
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MIB3 Infotainment
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is equipped with the innovative Volkswagen MIB3 touchscreen infotainment system. The display uses capacitive-touch sensor technology, similar to that in smartphones and tablets, enabling controls like swiping and pinch-zooming. Standard features include Bluetooth technology for compatible devices and App-Connect smartphone integration for compatible devices.
The standard Discover Pro unit with navigation and a 10-inch display features wireless charging and wireless App-Connect for compatible devices, voice control, HD radio, SiriusXM with 360L (three-month Platinum Plan trial), and four USB-C ports—two front, two charge-only rear. With a paid Car-Net Hotspot subscription and Plus Nav package, maps can be automatically updated with current traffic and construction information.
SiriusXM with 360L
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R models offer the advanced audio entertainment platform—SiriusXM with 360L. This next-generation platform combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single in-vehicle entertainment experience. It provides more options than before, including access to more than 10,000 hours of SiriusXM’s recorded On Demand content, and more live channels. SiriusXM with 360L’s personalized “For You” recommendations help listeners discover more of what they love based on listening habits.
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Volkswagen Car-Net in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R comes equipped with Volkswagen Car-Net Services, which are offered in three areas: Remote Access, Safe & Secure, and Hotspot. Remote Access allows owners to interact with their vehicle remotely via a mobile app, offering features such as remote door lock and unlock, remote honk and flash of lights, last parked location, and remote vehicle status display. It also includes VW Car-Net skills for Amazon Alexa, enabling owners to use their voice on an Alexa-enabled device to send remote commands. For vehicles with factory-installed navigation systems, Car-Net can locate off-street parking information and send destinations or points of interest directly to the car from the app.
Car-Net Safe & Secure is a paid subscription service that includes Information Assistance, Emergency Assistance, Automatic Crash Notification, Anti-Theft Alert, and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance. The service can provide support needs, such as points of interest and account services, put the driver in contact with the Car-Net service center in case of an emergency, automatically notify an operator who can quickly contact first responders in the event of a collision, send a push notification to the user if the vehicle’s anti-theft alarm is triggered, and assist law enforcement with locating the vehicle in the event that it is stolen.
Car-Net Hotspot allows passengers to access the internet with up to four connected devices simultaneously, including tablets, smartphones, laptops, gaming devices, and more, at 4G LTE-enabled speed. Volkswagen recently introduced Carrier of Choice, giving customers the option to select a data plan from either Verizon or T-Mobile. With an active data plan, the Plus Nav package provides enhanced navigation features, the Plus Voice package offers natural voice control to operate the radio, navigation, and telephone functions, and the Plus App Connect package allows for wireless connection of a smartphone to the vehicle for use of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
IQ.DRIVE
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R comes standard with IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen’s suite of advanced driver assistance technology. This includes Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist), Active Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping System (Lane Assist), Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist. High Beam Control (Light Assist), the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), and Dynamic Road Sign Display are also standard on Golf R. Front Assist is intended to warn drivers of potential frontal collisions with vehicles and pedestrians and provide automatic braking assistance.
Blind Spot Monitor uses radar sensors to scan approaching traffic and warn drivers of potential danger in adjacent lanes. Rear Traffic Alert helps detect vehicles approaching from the side while reversing, offering a visual and an acoustic warning if a potential collision is detected. Adaptive Cruise Control uses a forward-facing radar to maintain a set speed while helping maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. Lane Keeping System actively countersteers to help keep the vehicle in the lane when the vehicle is unintentionally straying from its lane.
Travel Assist, also standard on Golf R, uses a combination of Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping System to help keep the vehicle positioned in its lane and maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front. Emergency Assist can bring the vehicle to a stop in the event of a medical emergency situation. High Beam Control automatically raises the headlamp high beams on dark or poorly lit roads, if there is no oncoming traffic detected. The Adaptive Front-lighting System swivels the main headlight beams to help illuminate bends in the road more effectively. Dynamic Road Sign Display uses a forward-facing camera to acquire and display speed limits and no-passing zones to the driver.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R: Unleashing Power and Performance
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R stands as a unique and powerful variant within the Golf lineup. As the performance benchmark of the Volkswagen catalog, the 2022 Golf R holds the title of the most potent production Golf to date. The heart of this beast is a 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged and direct-injection engine, a member of the latest, fourth-generation EA888 engine family. This state-of-the-art engine is meticulously crafted in a modern factory located in Gyor, Hungary.
Engine Specifications of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
In the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, the EA888 evo4 engine displaces 1984cc, churning out a robust 315 horsepower (achieved using premium fuel) at 5,600 rpm, and 295 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm on DSG-equipped models. Manual-equipped models produce 280 lb-ft of torque at 1,900 rpm. This evo4 engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed DSG automatic transmission with Tiptronic. For the first time since the introduction of the DSG, the gearbox will stay in manual mode if the driver has selected it, when in “Special” or “Drift” driving mode. The DSG transmission incorporates a Start-Stop System designed to save fuel, as well as a launch control feature.
Advanced Engine Design in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The EA888 engine line is a marvel of modern engine design, striking a balance between performance, efficiency, and drivability in a lightweight and compact package. This powerful four-cylinder engine features an aluminum-alloy crossflow cylinder head that houses dual overhead camshafts. Volkswagen’s latest variable cam phasing system controls both intake and exhaust valves, and a variable lift system for the exhaust valves, allowing the traditionally opposing goals of performance and efficiency to be met simultaneously.
Enhanced Power Development in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The next-generation EA888 evo4 has been enhanced to optimize power development. Fuel is delivered by the latest high-pressure direct-fuel-injection system at 5,076 pounds per square inch, compared to 2,900 psi on the previous EA888 engine. Internal friction is minimized compared to its predecessor, which helps the Golf R hold its torque peak over a broader rpm range and gives the new Golf R noticeably more tractive power. A secondary benefit of the reduced friction is that engine acoustics are improved.
Fuel Economy of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The EPA-estimated fuel economy for Golf R models, when equipped with the six-speed manual, is 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. When equipped with the optional seven-speed DSG transmission, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R delivers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined.
Mastering the Road with Advanced 4Motion All-Wheel-Drive System
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is equipped with a sophisticated 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with rear-axle torque vectoring. This advanced torque vectoring system forms the cornerstone of the Golf R’s enhanced handling capabilities, setting a new performance standard in its category.
Torque Vectoring for the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
While the previous generation’s 4Motion system could distribute up to 50 percent of the engine’s total power to the rear axle via a multi-plate clutch, the new system in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R takes a step further. It not only distributes drive power between the front and rear axles but also between the two rear wheels. This is made possible by a rear differential with two multi-plate clutches, which can distribute up to 100 percent of the rear torque to an individual rear wheel. This significant enhancement increases the Golf R’s agility, particularly when cornering. The system is designed to allocate power between the wheels based on speed, throttle application, yaw, and other factors. In a typical corner, more power can be directed to the wheel on the outside of the curve in a matter of milliseconds, reducing the cornering radius.
Retaining the Benefits of 4Motion System
The latest-generation 4Motion system in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R retains its benefits, effectively eliminating traction losses. The system activates before wheelspin occurs, using an advanced control function based on specific driving conditions. Under a relatively low load or when coasting, the front wheels are driven, and the rear wheels are decoupled, helping to save fuel. However, the rear wheels can be engaged in fractions of a second whenever necessary via the center differential, which is activated by an electro-hydraulic oil pump.
Advanced Control Unit
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R features a control unit that continually calculates the ideal drive torque for the rear wheels. It controls how much the multi-plate clutch should be closed by activating the oil pump. The oil pressure increases the contact pressure at the clutch plates in proportion to the torque desired at the rear axle. Thus, the amount of pressure applied to the clutch plates can be used to continuously vary the amount of torque going between the front and rear wheels, up to a maximum of 50 percent at the rear axle.
Electronic Differential Locks
In addition to the center differential that acts longitudinally and the torque vectoring function of the rear axle, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R also features electronic differential locks. These are a function of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system and act laterally. The system can briefly brake a wheel that is slipping, enabling uninterrupted and stable transfer of drive power to the wheel on the opposite side.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R: A Masterclass in Chassis Design
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, the eighth-generation model, is built on Volkswagen’s MQB modular platform. This platform features two solid-mounted subframes with bolt-on front fenders and employs advanced technologies such as the laser clamp welder. This welder produces “wobble seam” welds in a wave pattern, maximizing strength in a limited space.
High-Strength Construction
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R boasts a stamped steel body and chassis, with a significant percentage of high-strength, hot-formed steel. This innovative technology allows for the construction of the chassis and body from thinner, lighter parts without compromising strength. The new generation benefits from an increased use of ultra-high-strength steel. Notably, the MK8 Golf R’s front suspension weight has been reduced by nearly seven pounds, thanks to an extremely rigid aluminum subframe.
Front Suspension and Rear Suspension
The front suspension of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R features an updated strut-type design with lower control arms. The spring rates are 10 percent stiffer than the previous Golf R model, with adjusted damper hydraulics and an increased range of variability. The damper bump stops and control arm bushings have been reconfigured, and the bonded rubber mounts of the transverse links have been optimized for enhanced comfort and higher steering precision. Compared to its predecessor, the camber has been significantly increased, adding an additional one degree and 20 minutes of negative camber. The anti-roll bar is 10 percent stiffer, and the rubber anti-roll bar mounts are directly vulcanized onto the bar, ensuring optimal acoustic characteristics and outstanding responsiveness.
The rear axle of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R utilizes a multi-link design with an anti-roll bar. This design allows for high lateral rigidity for optimal handling while maximizing longitudinal compliance for ride comfort. The spring rate is 10 percent stiffer than the outgoing Mk7 Golf R, with damper hydraulics adjusted accordingly. The damper bearings and helper springs have also been updated. The connection of the anti-roll bar and damper at the spring link is a key design feature, reducing the forces within the axle. The rear suspension employs updated control arm mounts and newly designed hub carriers, significantly improving steering precision and driving stability. The track and camber values are set individually via eccentric bolts on the spring link and upper transverse link.
Integrated Vehicle Dynamics
The Mk8 models of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R feature new vehicle dynamics settings that closely integrate the electronic stability control (ESC) with the electronic differential lock (XDS) and the standard DCC adaptive damping system. By adapting the individual wheel damping 200 times a second, the Golf R delivers particularly agile and accurate handling.
Enhanced Braking System
All 2022 Volkswagen Golf R models come equipped with larger 14.1-inch front and 12.2-inch rear vented disc brakes. The front calipers are a two-piston floating design, while the rotors are now cross-drilled and supported with aluminum hats for a 1.3-lb weight reduction. An advanced electromechanical brake servo sharpens pedal response, shortening braking distances in testing. Simultaneously, the system allows precise brake pedal modulation in the higher brake pressure range.
Driving Mode Selection
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R elevates the driving experience with its advanced Driving Mode Selection feature. This feature now offers six distinctive modes: “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Race,” “Drift,” “Special,” and “Custom.” Each mode alters the steering heft and throttle response to provide a unique driving experience. For those who prefer a personalized touch, the “Custom” mode allows drivers to tailor the steering and throttle to their preference. For models equipped with the DSG transmission, the sportier modes deliver more aggressive shifts.
Comfort Mode
In “Comfort” mode, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R optimizes shift algorithms for a smoother ride. The steering effort lightens, and throttle response and ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) acceleration are dampened, providing a relaxed and comfortable driving experience.
Drift Mode
The new “Drift” mode, designed for track-only use, changes the Golf R’s stability control parameters to ESC Sport. The torque vectoring system initiates the drift by sending all available rear torque to the outside wheel. To ensure that this profile is only selected on private roads, the infotainment system always displays a confirmation prompt before activation.
Special Mode
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R also introduces a new “Special” setting, specifically configured for optimal performance around Germany’s famed NĂĽrburgring Nordschleife racetrack. This mode optimizes torque vectoring for the track’s cornering profile, along with softer suspension damping settings.
Enhanced Control in Drift and Special Modes
In both “Drift” and “Special” modes, the accelerator pedal response curve of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R has been fine-tuned to deliver an unfiltered sense of performance. This high degree of control is advantageous for perfect drifts on snow, ice, or asphalt. Additionally, the DSG calibration has been optimized to keep the rpm consistently high. In automatic mode, the dual-clutch gearbox switches up as late as possible and down as early as possible, aiding in power development.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R: Advanced DCC Adaptive Damping System
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is equipped with the latest version of the DCC adaptive damping system. This advanced system individually manages the suspension’s rebound and compression rates, significantly enhancing vehicle dynamics. The DCC system continuously adapts to the road surface and driving conditions, taking into account various inputs such as steering, braking, and acceleration. Depending on the selected driving profile mode, the driver can influence the reduction in body motion as desired. The required damping is calculated for each wheel and adjusted at the four dampers within fractions of a second. This ensures that the DCC system always provides the highest level of driving comfort and ideal driving dynamics in conjunction with the vehicle dynamics system.
Custom Mode
In the latest DCC generation, the “Custom” mode extends beyond the existing range of the fixed “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Race” modes. The driver can set and store their personal driving profile using a digital slider to adjust damping firmness. Beyond the “Comfort” setting, the body is isolated from the road surface as much as possible. Beyond “Sport” mode, there is an extended setting range with maximum damping for minimized body movements and extremely direct handling.
ESC Sport
Another standout feature of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is the ESC Sport and ESC Off functions. These are designed for very experienced drivers for use only on closed courses, such as a racetrack. The system is activated by accessing the “Vehicle” menu from the infotainment display. In ESC Sport mode, the ESC thresholds and traction control slip thresholds are increased to reduce the intensity of interventions. In ESC Off mode, ambitious drivers can deactivate ESC altogether. However, Front Assist and Swerve Assist reactivate ESC in emergencies.
Progressive Variable-Ratio Steering
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R features a progressive variable-ratio electric power steering system that has been specifically tuned for this model. This system is an elegant solution to a common problem with steering systems, which is that different speeds and maneuvers ideally require different steering rates. In this case, the teeth on the steering rack are spaced more tightly toward the center than on a normal rack. The lower steering ratio in the center means that the car can respond quickly when entering a turn, while the higher ratio at the ends of the rack can help reduce the amount of effort needed near full steering lock, such as when parking. The Golf R uses an enhanced system with a more direct ratio and new software, enabling steering lock of just 1.97 turns.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R: Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is designed with a blend of passive and active safety systems to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. It comes standard with six airbags (front and side airbags for front passengers and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions), along with several electronic safety systems, such as an Anti-lock Braking System and Electronic Stability Control. All models of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R feature a standard rearview camera.
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
A standard feature on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. This system is based on the understanding that a collision is rarely a single, instantaneous action, but rather a series of events that follow the initial impact. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System helps to mitigate the effects of these subsequent events by applying the brakes when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors. This action can potentially reduce residual kinetic energy and, in turn, the chance of additional damage.
Intelligent Crash Response System
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R also includes Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System. This system shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.
IQ.DRIVE Advanced Driver Assistance Technology
Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE advanced driver assistance technology, available on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, offers hands-on semi-autonomous capability. On the highway, IQ.DRIVE features lane centering and a capacitive steering wheel to make driving easier. Around town, IQ.DRIVE alerts you to surprise obstacles in front of you, and keeps an eye around you to help make driving safer.
IQ.DRIVE System Components
The IQ.DRIVE system in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R utilizes front and rear radar, a front camera, and several ultrasound sensors to collect data from the surrounding area. This data enables a range of features including Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance); Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring); Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor); Rear Traffic Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go; Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System); and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency). Emergency Assist is only available on models equipped with an automatic transmission.
Travel Assist
Travel Assist, standard on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, enables semi-autonomous hands-on driving capability from 0 to 95 mph. Travel Assist can be activated by a button on the steering wheel, and uses the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Assist (Lane Keeping Assist) features to help to steer as well as accelerate and brake the vehicle in response to traffic and center the vehicle within lane markings. This allows the driver to observe driving tasks while using minimal force on the wheel. It is the driver’s responsibility to continuously monitor the system, remain alert, and maintain control of the vehicle at all times. To ensure this, Travel Assist monitors the capacitive steering wheel to make sure the driver has their hands on it. When Travel Assist is active, the cockpit display can show the lane markings (solid or dotted) and adjacent vehicles (car, motorcycle, or box truck).
Front Assist
Front Assist, standard on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, is intended to warn drivers of potential frontal collisions (Forward Collision Warning) with vehicles and pedestrians, and in some cases provide automatic braking assistance (Autonomous Emergency Braking). New for 2022, the system can now detect cyclists or pedestrians traveling parallel to the vehicle and alert the driver if they turn into the vehicle’s path.
Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor)
Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor) is standard on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R. Side Assist uses two radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle to scan the approaching traffic and is intended to warn drivers of the presence of other vehicles in adjacent lanes. If the driver uses the turn signal to indicate a lane change while a vehicle is detected in a blind spot, the system utilizes a flashing LED symbol in the outer area of the side mirrors. Even if the driver does not use a turn signal, the LED symbol in the mirror will illuminate if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot. The system is designed to help alert drivers in specific situations; stationary objects or oncoming vehicles do not trigger warnings, nor do vehicles more than one lane across away from the vehicle.
Rear Traffic Alert
The Rear Traffic Alert system, standard on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, is intended to detect vehicles approaching from the side that may be difficult for the driver to see while reversing. The system offers a 180-degree view of the back of the car with a range of 65 feet, and will present a visual and an acoustic warning, if a potential collision with a crossing vehicle is detected. If the driver does not react, the system can apply the brakes to help mitigate and, in the best case, can prevent a collision. The system is activated by putting the car in reverse.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop & Go
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop & Go, standard on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, uses a forward-facing radar to maintain a set speed while helping maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. The driver sets the speed and the desired spacing via buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and can further use those buttons to adjust and cancel the ACC function while the accelerator can be used to override the ACC function. Pressing the brakes always cancels the ACC function. All ACC-related system messages appear in the central multifunction display.
Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System)
Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System) is standard on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R. When driving above 40 mph, if the system’s camera recognizes visible lane markings and, using a special algorithm, calculates that the vehicle is unintentionally straying from its lane without using a turn signal, Lane Assist actively countersteers to help keep the vehicle in its lane. If the driver takes his or her hands off the wheel for a defined period of time, the system provides an audible warning and a visual signal in the instrument cluster, asking the driver to take over.
Emergency Assist
Emergency Assist, standard on the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R equipped with automatic transmission, can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver is incapacitated. Emergency Assist constantly monitors the driver’s attentiveness by checking the input of their hands on the steering wheel. If the system does not detect driver input, a series of warnings (visual, audible, and brake jolts) will occur. If still no input is detected, Emergency Assist will slow the vehicle to a gradual stop in its own lane and activate hazard lights. Emergency Assist requires Lane Assist to be active for the system to intervene.
Additional Driver Assistance Features
In addition to IQ.DRIVE, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R has available Park Distance Control, Park Assist (Parking Steering Assistant), Dynamic Road Sign Display, and Light Assist (High Beam Control for headlights).
Wrapping Up: A Blend of Performance, Comfort, and Safety
In conclusion, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R emerges as a remarkable blend of performance, comfort, and safety. The vehicle’s advanced features, such as the DCC adaptive damping system, ESC Sport, and progressive variable-ratio steering, contribute to an exhilarating driving experience. These features not only enhance the vehicle’s performance but also ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, catering to a wide range of driving preferences.
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R also stands out for its comprehensive safety and driver assistance systems. The vehicle’s safety features, including the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and the Intelligent Crash Response System, work together to provide a secure driving environment. Furthermore, the IQ.DRIVE® advanced driver assistance technology offers semi-autonomous driving capability, making both highway and city driving safer and more comfortable.
In essence, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is a testament to Volkswagen’s commitment to innovation, performance, and safety. With its advanced features and state-of-the-art technology, the vehicle offers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and secure. Whether you’re a driving enthusiast seeking a high-performance vehicle or a safety-conscious driver looking for a reliable car, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R is a compelling choice that delivers on all fronts.
