The new Golf R Cabrio, the fastest Golf Cabrio ever

Meet the new Golf R Cabriolet, the first-ever open-top R model and the fastest-ever production open-top Golf.  At the heart of the new range-topping cabriolet is a four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine producing 265 PS, connected to a standard six-speed DSG gearbox transmitting power to the front wheels.  The new car has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, with the benchmark 0-62 mph sprint taking just 6.4 seconds.

Design cues include a bespoke front bumper with gloss-black grille and ‘R’ logo, LED daytime running lights, bi-xenon headlights with black housings, gloss-black door mirror casings and black-painted brake callipers with R logo.  Side sill extensions, a gloss black rear diffuser framed by chrome-tipped exhausts either side and smoked LED tail lights complete the look.

Bespoke ‘R’ suspension lowers the ride by 25 mm in comparison with the standard Golf Cabriolet.  Wheels are 18- or 19-inch ‘Talladega’ alloy wheels in either ‘Sterling Silver’ or optionally ‘High-gloss Black’.

The interior features four individual sports seats in ‘Vienna Cool Leather’ and ‘R’ logos in the head restraints, while the leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, handbrake grip and gear lever all have contrasting grey stitching.  The pedals have brushed aluminium caps, while the doors and dashboard feature ‘Silver Lane’ aluminium decorative inlays.

Standard specification includes RCD 310 DAB radio with MDI (multi-device interface) and Bluetooth telephone connectivity.  As on all Golf Cabriolet models, the fully electric insulated hood is operated by a switch in the centre console, and can be lowered in 9.5 seconds at speeds of up to 18 mph (and raised in 11.0 seconds).

The Golf R Cabriolet will be available to order this spring, priced at £38,770 RRP OTR.  The Golf Cabriolet range costs from £21,040 for the entry-level S 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS, rising to £30,765 for the GTI 2.0-litre TSI 210 PS with DSG gearbox.