The new Volkswagen Golf R will get Audi's five-cylinder engine

Volkswagen is developing the most powerful Golf in history. The 25th anniversary version of the R will be powered by the 2.5 TFSI turbo engine from the Audi RS3.

Here's What We Know

According to Autocar, the premiere is scheduled for 2027. At the same time, it is confirmed that the EA855 series five-cylinder motor will remain in service despite the threat from new environmental regulations in the EU.

The installation of this unit will be a major step up from the current Golf R 333, which is powered by a 2.0-litre EA888 turbo four producing 328bhp and 400Nm of torque, while the 2.5 TFSI in the RS3 produces 394bhp and 480Nm. With this engine, the Golf R will be the fastest in history: if the R 333 accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, the Audi RS3 does it in 3.8 seconds.

At the same time, the engine's potential can be unlocked even further. In 2023, the former head of Audi Sport, Sebastian Grams, hinted that the limit of the five-cylinder engine had not yet been reached. The limited edition RS3 Performance Edition, for example, develops 401 hp and 500 N-m.

To keep the engine alive when Euro 7 comes into force in November 2026, Audi will modernise it with a new particulate filter, more sensitive NOx sensors, new fuel system algorithms and catalysts with higher cell density.

Installation of the new engine will entail changes to the chassis settings and the appearance of reinforced brakes. Weight will increase by about 25 kg, but it will be partially compensated by lightweight wheels and lightweight seats. The model will receive a revised DSG transmission, Torque Splitter system from RS3 and new aerodynamic elements - air intakes, spoiler, diffuser and titanium exhaust system.

This will be the last Golf with an all-petrol engine: in parallel, the brand will bring a hybrid version to the market, and by the end of the decade will introduce a new all-electric model.

Source: Autocar