Volkswagen Malaysia recently streamlined its local Golf lineup to make their production process more efficient. They have stopped assembling the more affordable Golf R-Line to make way for the top-of-the-line Volkswagen Golf R. This marks the first time the Golf R is being assembled outside of Europe. The Golf R is the most powerful and exciting model in Volkswagen’s lineup. And this time around, I’m back to review the Volkswagen Golf R, as it’s not the first time I’ve reviewed this car. Let’s find out if the Golf R is even more fun to drive than before, especially since Volkswagen has added new features to the locally assembled model.
For the locally assembled Golf R, Volkswagen hasn’t simply replicated the specifications of the fully imported version—they’ve enhanced it to make it even more appealing. Just based on looks, it’s hard to distinguish this locally assembled model from the fully imported ones. However, I can see that the locally assembled version actually looks a tad sportier. This is thanks to the new 19-inch “Estoril” rims that Volkswagen Malaysia has chosen for this version. Even with the new rims, the tires remain 235/35/R19. 
Aside from the rims, the Golf R also receives a major upgrade with an Akrapovic titanium exhaust. This exhaust is factory-fitted, so owners won’t need to search for it in the aftermarket. It gives the rear of the vehicle a more prominent look, though I do wish it was louder. When cruising, the exhaust is barely louder than the standard exhaust on the GTI. In fact, I think the stock Golf R exhaust might be a touch louder when idling. However, when you switch to Race mode, the valve opens up, making the exhaust slightly louder. When I say slightly, I mean it’s very subtle, as the car still has to comply with modern sound regulations. 
In Race mode, the Golf R now has two additional driving modes to make your drive even more exhilarating. The first is Drift mode, which, as the name suggests, allows you to drift in wide-open areas. To achieve this, Volkswagen has enhanced the Golf R’s rear differential, enabling it to send power to the outer wheel and lose grip, creating the drift effect. While this is an exciting enhancement, there may not be many opportunities to use this mode. 
The second mode is Special mode, indicated by an icon suggesting it’s designed for the track. In this mode, everything becomes sharper—significantly sharper than the fully imported Golf R can achieve. Throttle response is instant, the transmission becomes more responsive, and of course, the exhaust and engine notes are louder. Like the Golf GTI, the Golf R now comes with a full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This system is quite similar to that of the GTI, making it easy to get used to, and it performs as expected. I also appreciate that it doesn’t feel overly intrusive, so it doesn’t alert the driver unnecessarily. 
The Golf R is still powered by the same 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged EA 888 engine as the fully imported model, producing 320 PS and 400 Nm of peak torque. Having driven the Golf R for the second time now, I find myself liking it even more compared to the first time. The additional modes allow drivers to explore the full potential of the Golf R better.
The Golf R still handles beautifully in corners, with the sharp, responsive steering inspiring confidence when taking on turns. The suspension is versatile, softening for comfort when needed but firming up to reduce body roll for a sportier driving feel. It’s an exceptionally capable car and, in my opinion, even more enjoyable to drive than some pricier hot hatches.
With local assembly, Volkswagen Malaysia has managed to bring down the Golf R’s price to a more accessible RM 334,012. Compared to the CBU model, this is a savings of RM 23,572, with additional features added for good measure. The Golf R is now a very appealing choice, especially considering its rarity compared to the Golf GTI. With the additional driving modes, I find the Golf R has gained even more character, which makes me appreciate it even more. Although you still need a proper wide-open track to fully exploit the Golf R, the extra features make it more enjoyable than ever before. 
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