2022 Golf GTI vs 2022 Golf R

2022 Golf GTI vs 2022 Golf R

A 2022 VW Golf GTI side-by-side to a 2022 Golf R with a mountain visible in the distance

The Volkswagen Golf has been part of the automobile scenery for so many years now (it appeared in the mid-70s), that it seems like it has always been around.  For 2022 it is offered in GTI and R versions.

Which model will best suit your needs and budget?  Volkswagen Lauzon in Blainville has put together a comparison of the Golf GTI versus the Golf R, so as to help you make the best possible choice!

Differences in power and fuel consumption

Under its hood, the Golf GTI hides a 2.0 L 4- cylinder turbocharged engine with 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft. maximum torque, which can be coupled with a 6- speed manual transmission or a 7- speed automatic DSG transmission.  This winning combination allows it to reach the 0-100 km/hr in just 6.4 seconds and offer fuel consumption ratings of city/highway ranging from 9.8/6.9 L/100 km (for manual) to 9.3/7.0 L/100 km (for automatic).

If you are looking for a vehicle with superior power, the Volkswagen Golf R comes with a 2.0 L 4- cylinder TSI performance engine with 315 horsepower and up to 295 lb-ft. maximum torque.  You will also have the choice between 2 different transmissions: a 6- speed manual transmission or a 7- speed dual-clutch automatic.

In terms of performance, this sports car can reach 270 km/hr and pulverize the 0-100 km/hr in as little as 4.7 seconds.  Even with all of this power, fuel consumption numbers for the Golf R are impressive: city/highway 11.8/8.3 L/100 km (manual transmission) and 10.3/7.7 L/100 km (automatic).

Back of a grey 2022 Golf GTI with its 2 exhaust tailpipes on each side at the bottom

2022 Golf GTI 2022 with its 2 exhaust tailpipes at the bottom

Back of a blue 2022 Golf R with its 2 double exhaust tailpipes on each side at the bottom

2022 Golf R with its 2 doble exhaust tailpipes on each side

Comfort and Interior for both 2022 Golf Sports Cars

Both these models have very sporty interiors.  The Volkswagen Golf GTI’s interior is back with its leather or fabric upholstered seats with red contrasting top stiches, headrests integrated into the sport-style front bucket seats, heated front and rear seats, 3 zone climate control, as well as stainless steel pedals (amongst other things).

When it comes to the Golf R, it shares similar features to the GTI.  It also has added features like: a flat-bottom steering wheel which gives it an extra sporty look, Clark fabric upholstered seats with contrasting blue topstitches and imitation carbon fiber trims (to name just a few).   

Whichever Golf you choose, you will be welcomed in a spacious and comfortable interior with seating for up to 5 occupants. 

Abundance of Technologies

The Golf GTI and Golf R are loaded with on-board technologies.  Depending on your selected options, here is what you might find aboard:

  • A 100% digital dashboard with a 10.25- inch screen;
  • Head-Up display;
  • An 8- inch tactile screen;
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (depending on model);
  • Wireless phone charger;
  • Car-Net Remote Access;
  • A Harman Kardon audio system;
  • Ambient lighting with 30 different color options;
  • Etc.
All the instrumentation of a 2022 Golf GTI; view from the middle of the cockpit

2022 Golf GTI

All the instrumentation of a 2022 Golf R; view from the middle of the cockpit

2022 Golf R

Safety

Several innovative safety features can be included in the Golf GTI and Golf R like, for example, Dynamic Road Sign Display, Adaptive Cruise Control, Park Assist, Automatic Emergency Breaking system with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Lane Assist and much more.  

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A Similar Exterior?

At first glance, when we look at the Golf GTI and Golf R, we can tell straight away that both are definitely Golf models.  However, even if they have many points in common, they have differences as well. 

Exterior: Golf GTI

The grille has a beehive pattern, stylised LED lights and distinct fog lights, which are composed of 5 small x-shaped headlights arranged like on the surface of a die.  This gives the Golf GTI its very unique style.  It is also equipped –depending on selected model- with 17 or 19 inch wheels. Are you interested in the Golf GTI 2022 and want to learn more about it? Read its featured article!

Exterior: Golf R

The Golf R redesigned grille is stunning!  It has beautiful thin blue lines running on each side of the logo to reach the headlights, a pair of rear spoilers (left and right sides), Estoril 19- inch wheels and blue brake calipers. 

As opposed to the Golf GTI, the Golf R also has chrome quad exhaust tips and bumpers. 

Comparing Golf GTI vs R prices

The Golf GTI comes in 3 different versions:

  • GTI ($ 34,239)
  • Autobahn ($ 37,739)
  • Performance ($ 41,739)

As for the 2022 Golf R, prices are as follows:

  • Manual: MSRP $ 47,739 
  • 7- speed dual-clutch transmission: $ 49,139 

Only one version of this model is available, but you can choose which type of transmission you prefer.  Moreover, you will find the legendary VW 4MOTION system, for even more dynamic handling. 

Always get the best price

To learn more about the VW Golf GTI and Golf R similarities and differences, don’t delay!  Come and see us at Volkswagen Lauzon in Blainville today!