Review: 16 Impressions of the 2024 Volkswagen Golf R

The Volkswagen Golf R is a highly anticipated car in the automotive industry, especially for enthusiasts like myself who have long admired the GTI and Golf R models. However, the latest generation of the Golf R and GTI has left many of us disappointed due to the frustrating interior layout and controls.

While the touchscreen interface and touch sliders have been a point of contention, it is worth noting that Volkswagen is making improvements, such as adding illumination to the sliders in the 2025 models. Additionally, the transition to a fully touchscreen interface has been met with mixed reviews, particularly regarding the lack of physical buttons and haptic feedback.

One of the major disappointments for manual transmission enthusiasts is the announcement that Volkswagen will no longer offer the GTI and Golf R with a manual transmission after 2025. This decision has left many feeling disheartened, as manual transmissions are often preferred by enthusiasts for the engaging driving experience they provide.

Despite these shortcomings, there are still many positive aspects of the Golf R that make it a compelling choice for buyers. The adjustable suspension, with 15 settings, offers a customizable driving experience that can cater to a variety of driving conditions. The torque-vectoring rear differential, which enables the Drift mode, enhances the Golf R’s performance capabilities, especially when navigating tight corners.

While the manual transmission may not be perfect, it offers a satisfying driving experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. However, it is important to note that there are some caveats to consider, such as the lack of automatic rev-matching and the potential for stalling when switching between drive modes.

Overall, the Volkswagen Golf R remains a standout performance car in the market, despite its shortcomings. With continued improvements and enhancements to the interior layout and controls, Volkswagen has the opportunity to refine the Golf R and GTI models to better meet the needs and expectations of enthusiasts and consumers alike.