Latest news with #VolkswagenGolfR
Auto Blog
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Honda Won't Like The Volkswagen Golf R's AWD System
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. The hot hatch segment is heating up Hot hatches aren't exactly a dime a dozen, and the competition is a heated one, but the Volkswagen Golf R manages to stand out as one of the best in the business. The German model combines all the practical features of the Golf, like seating for five and plenty of cargo space, with the performance of a sports car. The Golf R isn't the only hot hatch in its price range, though. The Honda Civic Type R presents fierce competition, with a competitive price and similar performance, but it lacks a key feature to go tire-to-tire with the Golf R: all-wheel drive. European 2025 Volkswagen Golf R Black Edition — Source: Volkswagen Volkswagen Golf R comes with standard AWD The 2025 Volkswagen Golf R is the most powerful of its breed, with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. That's 13 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque more than the 2024 model. Power is transmitted through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Golf R features VW's 4Motion all-wheel drivetrain, providing drivers with a more engaging experience behind the wheel. The 2025 VW Golf is also one of the more efficient hot hatches, earning up to 25 mpg in combined city/highway driving. European 2025 Volkswagen Golf R Black Edition — Source: Volkswagen The Honda Civic Type R is a favorite of hot hatch enthusiasts, and rightfully so. It comes stocked with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. That powerhouse comes mated to a six-speed manual transmission that sends power to the front wheels. The Japanese hot hatch is one of the few, if not only, of its segment that comes with front-wheel drive. That drivetrain doesn't translate to higher efficiency, though, with the 2025 Civic Type R earning a combined 24 mpg. Looking deeper, however, the VW Golf R might not be the whole package. The VW Golf R is only available with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, as the 2024 Golf R marked the final year for the six-speed manual. On top of that, the 2025 VW Golf R starts at $47,100. Meanwhile, the Honda Civic Type R offers a six-speed manual as the sole gearbox and is priced from $45,895. 2023 Honda Civic Type R — Source: Honda Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. The VW Golf R comes in two trim levels, with the top-spec model starting at $48,415. The Golf R Black Edition rolls out on 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels and as the name implies, it boasts a blacked-out theme, with darkened headlight elements and front grille and black VW and R badging. Black quad exhaust and brake calipers help complete the intimidating aesthetic. The VW Golf R isn't the only AWD hot hatch The Volkswagen Golf R isn't the only hot hatch to come with standard all-wheel drive. The Toyota GR Corolla manages to bridge the gap between the Civic Type R and the German hatchback, albeit in limited numbers. It comes powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Toyota's hot hatch entry also comes with standard all-wheel drive. 2025 Toyota GR Corolla — Source: Toyota Available from $39,160, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla undercuts both Volkswagen and Honda's hot hatch offerings. It comes in three trim levels, with the top-spec Premium Plus priced from $45,815. The Japanese hot hatch comes stock with an eight-speed Gazoo Racing direct automatic transmission, but drivers can opt for a six-speed manual gearbox instead. Surprisingly, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla's automatic transmission isn't the most efficient of the two. When paired with the standard all-wheel drivetrain, the GR Corolla earns up to 22 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The six-speed manual is the transmission of choice for both a more engaging driving experience and, as it turns out, fuel economy. GR Corolla models equipped with a manual gearbox are rated for a combined 24 mpg. European 2025 Volkswagen Golf R Black Edition — Source: Volkswagen Final thoughts The Honda Civic Type R is undoubtedly one of the hottest hatchbacks on the market, but the VW Golf R's AWD system might give it the upper hand. On the other side of the equation, the German hot hatch lacks a manual transmission, something enthusiasts tend to look for in performance cars. The Toyota GR Corolla manages to combine the best of both worlds, but its limited production could become an issue. Realistically, though, there's no bad choice in the hot hatch segment. About the Author Joseph Pudlewski View Profile
Motor 1
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
‘He's Looking All Over:' Pennsylvania Man Tries to Buy a Volkswagen That's ‘Spoken For.' Why's This Model So Hard to Find?
Car salesman Teddy (@teddydautomotive) went viral for revealing one of the most sought-after Volkswagen models in the United States right now. His post has generated over 4,400 views as of this writing. What Volkswagen Model Is So Hard to Find? 'I didn't realize how hard it is to find these Golf cars right now,' Teddy begins. According to the car salesman, the Volkswagen Golf R is a difficult car to find right now, especially the Black Edition. The salesman says a customer is looking all over the country for a Golf R and can't find one. 'I thought these were a dime in a dozen, but I guess they are really sought after,' he continues. The car salesman showcases the Golf R Black Edition, highlighting the sleek design of both the interior and exterior features. 'I'm not a big VW guy, but I can definitely understand the attraction for this with the Black Edition. Even the interior is top notch compared to anything else I've been in,' he concludes. Unfortunately for his customer, they'll have to keep looking elsewhere as the car Teddy shows in the video is already spoken for. Why Is This Model So Hard to Find at the Dealership? Kelley Blue Book reports that the MSRP of the Volkswagen Golf R Black edition is $49,460. This Black Edition is the most expensive version of the Volkswagen Golf series, Motor1 previously reported. In 2024, there were 4,187 Golf Rs sold in the United States, Volkswagen reports. The total US sales for Volkswagen were 379,178 vehicles in 2024. SUVs made up a majority of the sales with 290,824 units in 2024, with sedans selling 88,353. The 4,187 Golf R units were 1.1% of sales for Volkswagen in 2024. While SUVs made up 76% of total sales in 2024. When considering the sales numbers, it makes sense that the Golf R is more difficult to find in the US. Volkswagen likely prioritizes sending more SUVs to the US, as three out of four sales are for SUVs. Did Volkswagen Make a Mistake Ditching Manual Transmissions for the Golf R? The high price tag may scare away everyday drivers and only appeal to car enthusiasts. However, not all car enthusiasts have loved the updates to the 2025 model. Volkswagen abandoned manual transmissions for the 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R, Motor1 reported. This announcement left car enthusiasts in disappointment. 'No more manual trans on these anymore *sad emoji*' one TikTok commenter shared. 'I'd prefer the manual transmission option,' another replied. 'They are great cars and sad the 2024 model is the last to have a manual transmission,' a third shared. In 2024, over half of the Golf R sales were manual, Motor1 reported. Drivers wanted to secure the last run of the three pedals while they were able to, and manual sales made up 52% of the Golf R's total sales in 2024. Some viewers chimed in and called the content creator's claim a bluff, saying multiple dealerships have Golf R's collecting dust. 'We've had our Golf R in the showroom for months and nobody has test driven it once. Everyone looks at it but nobody actually shows interest,' one commenter said. 'These Golf R's are not hard to get. No one is buying the 2025s and I've seen discounts of up to 4k off. Don't believe the car sales propaganda,' a second shared. Moving on from manual transmissions may have hurt Volkswagen. For some car enthusiasts, driving a manual transmission for the Golf R was a big deal, and the new 2025 model doesn't hit the same. While inventory seems scarce across the US, the Golf R appears to be present at some dealerships. Motor1 has contacted Teddy via TikTok direct message. This story will be updated if he replies. Now Trending Car Saleswoman Says Not to Bring More Than 1 Person With You to the Dealership. Here's Why 'Everybody Says Red, But…:' Car Dealership Workers Share Which Car Color 'Gets Pulled Over the Most' Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Metro
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Race Across The World star Sam Gardiner died from 'devastating brain injury'
Race Across the World star Sam Gardiner died from a 'devastating brain injury' sustained in a car crash, an inquest has heard. The 24-year-old appeared on the BBC show with his mum Jo in the series which aired in March 2020. The mother-son duo were seen travelling across Mexico and Argentina for the cross-country challenge. Gardiner was driving a white Volkswagen Golf R estate when it came off the road and rolled before landing on May 26. The inquest into Gardiner's death has now heard how he lost control of his car after hitting a curb on the A34 in in Gatley, near Cheadle. Gardiner was taken to Salford Royal Hospital, where he died three days later, the hearing at Stockport coroners court was told. The police coroner's officer Andrew Levett told the inquest opening that Gardiner had died of a 'devastating brain injury' from the crash, the Manchester Evening News reported. He added: 'At approximately 9.49pm on Monday, May 26, Sam Gardiner was travelling on the A34 northbound heading towards Manchester when his vehicle collided with the kerb on the central reservation. 'He lost control of his vehicle before striking a tree and coming to a rest.' Gardiner, who was a landscape gardener, had been working on an isolated estate on the west coast of Scotland and was home in Manchester for a family gathering. The full inquest will be held on October 13. In a statement, his parents, Jo and Andrew, said they are 'devastated' by the loss of Sam. Their statement continued: 'Sam left us far too soon, and whilst words will never fully capture the light, joy and energy he brought into our lives, we hold on to the memories that made him so special. Sam was adored by his family. As a son, brother and nephew, he was loyal, funny and fiercely protective. More Trending 'He did Race Across the World in 2019, which opened his eyes to the wonder of adventure and travel. He was willing to go wherever the trail might lead, and he touched everyone he met on the road. He found great happiness working as a landscape gardener on the west coast of Scotland. 'Sam brought warmth, laughter and a smattering of chaos wherever he went. He leaves behind a huge hole in our hearts. We will miss him endlessly, but we'll also remember him with smiles, tall tales, and a depth of love that will never fade.' View More » Sam and his mum placed fourth in the race after being forced to drop out when they exhausted their travel budget. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Sam Gardiner's family raise thousands after Race Across the World star died at 24 MORE: The biggest complaint about Race Across The World misses the point completely MORE: Race Across The World fans moved as episode honours Sam Gardiner after death aged 24
Auto Express
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Car Deal of the Day: A Volkswagen Golf R Estate for less than a GTI
328bhp, 155mph top speed Practical interior, high-quality cabin Only £270.41 a month If you've got your heart set on a fast estate car for not much cash, then you better load up on this deal, because this Volkswagen Golf R Estate won't be around for long at this price. Select Car Leasing is offering the scintillating Volkswagen Golf R Estate for a simply unbelievable £270.41 a month right now. That's more than 300bhp for much less than £300 a month, which is not just an incredible power-per-pound ratio, it also means that this range-topping performance Golf is cheaper per month than the lesser potent (and practical) Golf GTI five-door hatch. This two-year deal requires £3,598.92 to be put down as an initial payment, and mileage is limited to 5,000 miles a year. This offer is better suited to lower-mileage drivers, because two-year, 8,000 miles per annum deals are all around £400 a month from every broker on the Auto Express Find a Car service, including from Select Car Leasing. Advertisement - Article continues below Despite that, you're getting one of the finest fast estates around. The 328bhp 2.0-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder engine fires the load-lugger from zero to 62mph in just 4.8 seconds, before topping out at 155mph. The car's seven-speed dual-clutch auto box also ensures gear changes are ruthlessly efficient. Beneath the practical body lies a trick four-wheel-drive system, which uses torque vectoring and electronic differential locks to send power to both front-to-rear and left-to-right. And the latest Golf R comes with DCC3 (Dynamic Chassis Control) as standard, allowing you to tweak the dampers and suspension to suit your mood. Of course, this being an estate car, space is important – rear legroom is pretty good and the 611-litre boot is enormous. Up front, the latest Golf features an improved cabin with an easier-to-use infotainment system and better-quality fixtures and fittings. The Car Deal of the Day selections we make are taken from our own Auto Express Find A Car deals service, which includes the best current offers from car dealers and leasing companies around the UK. Terms and conditions apply, while prices and offers are subject to change and limited availability. If this deal expires, you can find more top Volkswagen Golf R Estate leasing offers from leading providers on our Volkswagen Golf R Estate hub page. Check out the Volkswagen Golf R Estate deal or take a look at our previous Car Deal of the Day selection here… Find a car with the experts Avoid using car finance claim firms, says financial watchdog Avoid using car finance claim firms, says financial watchdog FCA warns that using a claim firm could see consumers lose up to 30 per cent of their winnings if car finance redress scheme is implemented Omoda 9 review Omoda 9 review Chinese brand's flagship aims to offer premium-SUV kit and comfort, for the price of mainstream rivals. Can it deliver? In-depth reviews 6 Jun 2025 Best mid-size SUVs to buy 2025 - our expert pick of the top options Best mid-size SUVs to buy 2025 - our expert pick of the top options Mid-size SUVs are hugely popular in the UK, and these are the very best of the current crop Best cars & vans 4 Jun 2025
Wales Online
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Fundraiser in memory of Race Across The World's Sam Gardiner hits £10k to help others with syndrome
Fundraiser in memory of Race Across The World's Sam Gardiner hits £10k to help others with syndrome Sam Gardiner, who competed in the BBC One series alongside his mother Jo, died after a car crash last month Sam, 24, died last month in a tragic car accident (Image: PA Media ) The family of Sam Gardiner, a contestant on the BBC One series Race Across The World, has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support, following his tragic death in a car accident last month. They have also thanked those who have donated to a fundraising campaign set up in his memory. Sam, 24, competed on the show alongside his mother, Jo. In his honour, the family launched a JustGiving page benefiting National FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), which has already raised over £10,000. In a heartfelt message, his mother said: "We have been overwhelmed by the tens of thousands of messages of love and support on social media and in comments to press reporting. "We would like to thank the BBC, Studio Lambert and everyone at Race Across The World production, fellow contestants and fans of the show for all their support at this terrible time. It has been very comforting to know that Sam touched so many people. "I have been particularly moved by all the messages that Sam was an inspiration to many who have been impacted by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder." Sam famously appeared on the BBC hit show alongside his mother, Jo Article continues below As Sam's adoptive parents, they had faced the challenges of his FASD diagnosis together, and his mother added: "National FASD helped us on that journey. If some good comes of this tragedy, it will be that FASD is better understood." The accident occurred when Mr Gardiner's white Volkswagen Golf R estate veered off the road, rolled, and landed on its side. The tragic incident occurred on the A34 in Gatley, near Cheadle, on Monday, May 26. He succumbed to his injuries three days later, as confirmed by his family last week. In March 2020, Sam and Jo embarked on a journey across Mexico and Argentina for the second series of the BBC show. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter Andrew Gardiner, Sam's father, shared: "When the news broke last week, friends asked how they could help. "After some thought, I decided to set up a JustGiving page to raise money for National FASD in memory of Sam. The page is called Sam Gardiner; Super Human. "I set the target at £500 thinking a few friends might be generous enough to make a donation. So far it's raised 20 times that. It's very humbling to see the RATW family rally to this worthy cause." The National Organisation for FASD, according to its official website, "provides support to people with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, their families and communities, campaigns to raise public awareness, and promotes relevant policies and practices". FASD, as described on the website, results "when prenatal alcohol exposure affects the developing brain and body. It further explains: "FASD is a spectrum. Each person with FASD is affected differently. ""While more than 400 conditions can co-occur, FASD is at its core a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. All people with FASD have many strengths. Early diagnosis and appropriate support are essential, especially for executive functioning. " A post on the official National FASD Instagram account read: "Sam lived his life full of love, exuberance and adventure as seen on BBC's Race Across the World. Article continues below ""National FASD is both humbled and honoured to help carry on his legacy via donations coming from hundreds. ". A private funeral service is scheduled for later this month. Find out more about the fundraiser here
