2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs R: Differences & changes compared

by Joshua Thompson

The Mark VIII Volkswagen Golf GTI and R are the brand’s flagship performance cars. See how they differ in this side by side comparison.

Both the Mark VIII Golf R and GTI have a turbocharged 2L 4-cylinder gas engine, and a top speed of 250km/h (155mph). The R’s top speed can be increased to 270km/h.

The GTI has 180kW (242hp) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft), a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT, and FWD. 0-100km/h in 6.3s.

The R has 235kW (316hp) and 420Nm (310 lb-ft), a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT, and AWD with torque vectoring. 0-100km/h in 4.9s.

GTI

The GTI has checkered flag lower light design and a honeycomb grille pattern. The R's bumper is different, and side sills are thicker.

GTI

The R has a bigger rear wing that stands tall from the hatch.

GTI

The GTI has two exhaust tips, but the R has four, and a bigger diffuser too.

GTI

The GTI has a standard red theme, while the R has blue as its highlight color.

GTI

Both the R and GTI have the same basic seat design, but the GTI has standard tartan cloth pattern, while the R has leather as standard.

2021 Volkswagen Golf R

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Credit: Volkswagen

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