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Volkswagen’s 2015 Golf R cleared for launch with pre-orders starting January 8

Volkswagen Golf R
Volkswagen’s most powerful production Golf ever will be landing in the United States soon.

The German brand has announced that the 2015 Golf R will be available for pre-order beginning on January 8, starting with a limited run of 500 units.

Each of the 500 Golfs will be completely identical, with a Lapiz Blue Metallic exterior, Bi-Xenon headlights, 19-inch ‘Cadiz’ aluminum-alloy wheels, and various options like satellite navigation, a Fender audio system, and Park Distance Control.

As far as performance goes, the Golf R is well equipped. A 2.0-liter turbo sends 292 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels, each of which are wrapped in sticky summer tires. A sport suspension, with the help adaptive dampers and stability control, keeps everything tidy in the turns.

With the six-speed DSG dual-clutch, the Golf R runs from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and tops out at a limited 155 mph. The DSG is offered with a launch control function as well, so that 60 mph sprint should be attainable without driving lessons or a burned out clutch.

The Golf’s impressive numbers should be plenty to tide over the enthusiast contingent while they await conformation of the 395-hp Golf R 400 that debuted at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show in April.

The hot hatch also has an estimated fuel economy rating of 30 mpg highway.

The car costs $39,090 with adaptive damping, navigation, and the other listed options. That may sound like a lot for a Golf, but its specs look to be right on par with the $34,495 base price of the Subaru WRX STI.

In late January, Digital Trends will be testing the Volkswagen Golf R at the vehicle’s first drive event in San Diego, California. Stay tuned for more updates!

Andrew Hard
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Andrew first started writing in middle school and hasn't put the pen down since. Whether it's technology, music, sports, or…
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