AUDI launches first ever S-Series Cabrio and first quattro equipped soft top A3

First ever S Series compact cabriolet and first quattro-equipped variant join latest soft-top A3 range

• New S3 Cabriolet is now ready to order - first deliveries expected in September
• 300 PS 2.0 TFSI quattro – 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds, 155mph top speed, combined MPG 39.8, CO₂165g/km – priced from £38,910 OTR
• Standard equipment highlights include Magnetic Ride and Progressive steering
• 2.0 TDI with 184 PS now also available for order, as a front-wheel drive manual or S tronic with quattro – prices start from £29,735 OTR

Rising temperatures call for a retractable roof, and for the first time in its three-generation history the high performance Audi S3 now has an answer to that call. The all-new 300PS S3 Cabriolet - the first ever soft-top version of the acclaimed high performance compact - is available to order now priced from £38,910 OTR, and is set to arrive with UK customers from September.

At the same time, the TDI arm of the open-air A3 range has also been bolstered by a muscular 184PS 2.0-litre TDI engine which is notable as the first in the history of the A3 Cabriolet ever to be offered with the option of quattro all-wheel-drive. Providing a highly desirable combination of strong performance and 65mpg-plus economy potential, the A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI 184PS joins the range priced from £29,735 OTR, and takes to our roads from October.

Common to both is of course a soft but extremely hard-wearing and exceptionally sound-absorbent acoustic soft-top with three-layer inner padding. This is stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium-steel which opens them up to the elements fully automatically in a little under 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph.

Beneath the bonnet of the trailblazing S3 is the acclaimed EU6-compliant 2.0 TFSI engine, linked exclusively here to six-speed S tronic transmission and apportioning its power four ways via the multi-plate clutch-based quattro all-wheel-drive system. Its substantial 300 PS power peak is available between 5,500 and 6,200rpm and peak torque of 380Nm is on tap from 1,800-5,500rpm, so a 5.4-second 0-62mph sprint and a governed 155mph top speed are well within its grasp. Combined fuel consumption stands at an impressive 39.8mpg, corresponding to CO2 emissions of 165g/km.

The S3 Cabriolet’s 19-inch alloy wheels amply fill the arches helped by sports suspension which lowers the body by 25mm over its A3 counterpart, and the added tautness and composure it provides is boosted by standard Audi Magnetic Ride adaptive damping. Continuously analysing the driver’s style and the condition of the road, the system can adjust the damping forces applied by its magnetorheological fluid-filled shock absorbers within milliseconds. It offers three modes – Auto, Dynamic and Comfort – accessible via the Audi drive select system which is also fitted to this version as standard.

Distinctive detailing

True to  S Series form, the S3 Cabriolet highlights its capabilities through specific cues such as aluminium-finish door mirror housings, S-specific sculpted bumpers, a platinum grey radiator grille treatment and Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights. The 19-inch partly polished twin-spoke alloy wheels also conceal black painted brake calipers featuring the S3 logo, and the rear diffuser makes provision for two tailpipes in each corner as a further statement of intent.

Inside, the S3 Cabriolet benefits from a standard flat-bottomed three spoke multi-function steering wheel wrapped in leather and pedals in brushed stainless steel. Grey instrument dials with white needles embellish the instrument cluster and a boost gauge is integrated into the rev counter. The heated, S embossed front seats are upholstered in Fine Nappa leather with contrasting silver stitching.

An array of customisation options can be selected from the options list, from the stunning Sepang blue, pearl effect and Panther black, crystal effect exterior colours to the Parade red design package, which lines the upper seat shoulders in Parade red velvet and the door trim inserts in black velvet. Contrasting red stitching also extends to the seats, leather steering wheel, gear lever and gaitor, and the floor mats are finished with Parade red piping. Striking red brake calipers can also complete the exterior enhancements.

All-wheel-drive debut for the A3 Cabriolet

For drivers who prefer diesel but also like their A3 Cabriolet to pack a punch, the 184 PS version of the 2.0 TDI engine has just supplemented the existing 150PS 2.0 TDI. The new performance flagship it creates in the TDI range is also the first A3 Cabriolet to offer the option of quattro all-wheel-drive. The new unit is available in conjunction with either Sport or S line specification, and with either six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel-drive or the six-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission and quattro.

In manual, front-wheel-drive form the more powerful 2.0 TDI can return an impressive 65.7mpg on the ECE combined cycle, while emitting just 114 grams of CO₂ per kilometre. Top speed is 150mph and the 0-62 dash takes just 7.9 seconds. In the version combining S tronic transmission with quattro drive the 0-62mph time falls to 7.6 seconds, and the top speed to 147mph, while combined MPG and CO₂ stand at 56.5 and 132g/km respectively.

Sport specification elements include 17-inch alloy wheels, 15mm lower sports suspension which can be ‘de-selected’ in favour of a more comfort-oriented standard set-up if required, Audi drive select, aluminium interior details and front Sports seats.

Highlight features of the top S line model include distinctive and exclusive S line exterior styling, 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels and Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights as standard.

Model	Transmission	Specification	Price (OTR)
A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI (184 PS)	6-speed manual	Sport	£29,735
A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI quattro (184 PS)	6-speed S tronic	Sport	£32,775
A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI (184 PS)	6-speed manual	S line	£31,885
A3 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI quattro (184 PS)	6-speed S tronic	S line	£34,925
S3 Cabriolet quattro (300 PS)	6-speed S tronic	-	£38,910

The Paceman from MINI, Still the ugly duckling (along with the Countryman, Coupe and Roadster)

Fresh design, optimised aerodynamics and revised engines for first Sports Activity Coupé in premium compact segment.

• New version of the MINI Paceman debuts at Auto China Beijing 2014
• All engines now EU6 compliant, CO₂ reductions in all models
• Fresh design details, sportier cabin with anthracite-coloured dials
• MINI Cooper S Paceman is more powerful yet more efficient than ever
• Enhanced driving performance, optimised aerodynamics
• New paint finishes and light alloy wheels available

As the world's first ever Sports Activity Coupé in the premium compact segment, the MINI Paceman has always offered athletic design and a sporty driving experience. Now with the unveiling of the new version at the Auto China Beijing show, there is even more on offer to appeal to design-conscious customers.

The new MINI Paceman boasts fresh design details and a sportier interior finish, while at the same time offering an optimised balance between driving performance and fuel consumption.

The new MINI Cooper S Paceman is also more powerful yet more efficient than ever, with its engine developing an additional 190  hp. MINIMALISM technology contributes to reduced fuel consumption and emission figures in all other model variants, as well as enabling increased figures for acceleration, in-gear acceleration and top speed. All variants of the new MINI Paceman meet the EU6 exhaust emission standard.

The MINI John Cooper Works Paceman also joins the refreshed line up with an output of 218 hp and fitted with MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as standard.

Expressive design with fresh details.

The innovative MINI Paceman includes a distinctive and highly expressive body design which embodies the properties of hallmark MINI design.

The upright front section, with its large headlamps and hexagonal radiator grille contour, afford the Paceman a purposeful look, while the elongated silhouette reinforces its sportiness. Its distinctive character is also underscored by the rear lights which are horizontally arranged for the first time on a MINI.

In certain models the radiator grille of the MINI Paceman now features a specific contour and grid structure. The new MINI John Cooper Works Paceman can be identified by a horizontal radiator grill rib in red, with the John Cooper Works logo positioned on the honeycomb pattern. The MINI Cooper S Paceman also features a curved ‘S’ in red on the front radiator grille.

In addition to the coupé style doors, other striking features include the aggressively sloped roof which is available in a contrasting colour. The flowing roof line, falling off to the rear, and the tapering side window graphic create a stretched, wedge-like silhouette.

The new Piano Black Exterior trim affords a high-end look to selected surfaces. It is to the surrounds of the headlamps and rear lights, on the diagonal links between the A columns and the front wheel arches and on the optional roof rails and the cross-rib in the radiator grill on the MINI Cooper Paceman. Chrome Line Exterior is also available as a no cost option.

New colours for the MINI Paceman include Jungle Green metallic and Midnight Grey metallic. Black or white white contrasting roofs are available as a no cost option, while a contrasting Chilli Red roof is available exclusively for the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman. Sport and bonnet stripes are also available in various colours.

New light alloy wheels with reduced weight and LED fog lights as standard.

Light alloy wheels come as standard in all model variants of the MINI Paceman. Newly designed for the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper D Paceman , the 16-inch light alloy wheels in 5-Star ‘Air Spoke’ Design help increase the fuel efficiency of these models with their reduced weight and optimised aerodynamic properties.

The 17-inch light alloy wheels in the new 5-Star ‘Triangle Spoke’ Design for the MINI Cooper S and the MINI Cooper SD Paceman are also lighter than their predecessors. They are also available in a two-colour design. MINIMALISM versions of these wheels are also available featuring tyres with reduced rolling resistance for reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels.

Meanwhile, the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman features 18-inch light alloy wheels in ‘Twin Spoke Black Burnished’ Design as standard.

LED fog lights including parking and daytime LED driving lights are now standard across all MINI Paceman models. They provide an intense, bright white light with a much higher level of energy efficiency than conventional lamps. The structure of their light sources in full LED technology helps make the front view of the new MINI Paceman distinctively expressive.

Optimised acoustic comfort, sporty flair and refined premium characteristics for the interior.

The MINI Paceman is designed as a 2+2, with two sports seats for driver and front passenger and two individual seats at the rear offering excellent shoulder and head room, lateral support and comfort. The exclusive ‘lounge’ ambience of the second row is likewise enhanced by the armrests in the side rear trim panels. The new MINI Paceman benefits from acoustic optimisation which has reduced road noise against the outgoing model.

Adding to the sporty flair inside the cockpit, speed and display dials are now anthracite-coloured in the style of the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman across all models, while the John Cooper Works model bears the logo in the central instrument. The standard trim of the new MINI Paceman likewise includes chrome touches around the ventilation controls, clearly reflecting the car's refined premium characteristics.

Fast and efficient thanks to enhanced MINIMALISM technology.

Numerous optimisations under the skin of the MINI Paceman contribute to a combination of increased driving fun with improvements in fuel economy and reductions in exhaust emissions. All petrol and diesel engines now meet EU6 exhaust emission standards. In addition, the high degree of efficiency of the modern four-cylinder power units and MINIMALISM technology ensure that the balance between driving performance and fuel consumption has been fine tuned in all engine variants. Measures applied to boost efficiency include optimised air ducting in the area of the underbody, wheel bearings with a lower friction coefficient and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.

Increased power for the new MINI Cooper S Paceman further consolidates its leading position in the segment in terms of driving fun. Its four-cylinder spark ignition engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve control sees power increase from 184 hp to 190 hp.

Figures* for the full MINI Paceman range are as follows:

Model	Power	0-62 mph	Fuel Consumption	CO2
Cooper	122 hp	10.4 (-0.1)	47.9 mpg	137 g/km
Cooper D	111 hp	10.9	67.3 mpg	111 g/km
Cooper S	190 hp	7.5 (-0.1)	47.1 mpg	139 g/km
Cooper SD	143 hp	9.2 sec (-0.1 sec)	62.8 mpg	119 g/km
John Cooper Works	218 hp	6.9 sec        (- 0.1 sec)	39.8 mpg	165 g/km

MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system available across range.

The MINI Paceman is the second model in the range to offer MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system. MINI ALL4 distributes drive power at continuously variable levels between the front and rear axle by means of an electromagnetic centre differential and is available for all model variants.

All MINI Paceman models can be combined with a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the standard six-speed manual. The automatic transmission offers the possibility of manual gear selection with Steptronic – including shift paddles.

Fun, safety, comfort and networking at the highest level.

The suspension technology of the MINI Paceman is of exceptionally high quality for the compact segment and in conjunction with its powerful engines contribute to the car's impressive agility. Unmistakable go-kart feeling is guaranteed by the combination of McPherson spring struts and forged wishbones on the front axle, a multilink rear axle and electromechanical power steering.

The integrated MINI safety concept comprises a crash-optimised body structure and a full range of features in the areas of active and passive safety. This puts occupant safety on the same level as the MINI Countryman, which was awarded the top five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating. The new MINI Paceman is fitted as standard with daytime driving light as well as tyre pressure control on each individual tyre. Constant measurement of pressure means that the driver is given an early warning of potential loss in each tyre.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) also forms part of the standard equipment of the MINI Paceman. DSC including Electronic Differential Lock Control (ELDC) is fitted as standard in conjunction with the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system in the MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper SD and John Cooper Works Paceman.

Generous standard equipment and wide range of options.
An extensive range of optional equipment is available on new MINI Paceman.  There are numerous upholstery types, interior colours, interior trims and Colour Lines to choose from. Bi-Xenon headlamps with adaptive turning, automatic air conditioning, comfort access, the electrically operated glass sunroof, a removable tow bar on some models with a trailer load of up to 1,200 kilograms, the MINI Navigation System, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and model-specific John Cooper Works accessories are all also available from the options list. Standard features include air conditioning, MINI Centre Rail between the front seats and a high-end radio system comprising CD player with MP3 capability, AUX-in socket, DAB radio, Bluetooth, five speakers and rear Park Distance Control.

MINI Connected offers extensive smartphone integration.

With MINI Connected, the British manufacturer emphasises its leading role in the intelligent networking of driver, car and the outside world based on cutting-edge interface technology. The integration of entertainment and online functions offered by modern smartphones helps make driving a MINI even more convenient and entertaining. It enables the use of vehicle-specific functions such as Mission Control, Dynamic Music, Driving Excitement and MINIMALISM Analyser as well as online-based services.  

Integration of third party apps into the car is available with MINI Connected, with additional functionality being added on an ongoing basis. Current functions include web radio, the use of social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and Glympse, RSS news feed reception and entertainment programs such as AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster/Rhapsody and TuneIn. Operation is intuitive and typically MINI in style via the on-board computer in the central instrument, the MINI Joy Stick in the centre console, the multifunction buttons of the steering wheel and also voice control.

Thrilling new 300PS Cabriolet joins the Audi A3 range for an even more rewarding roof-down drive

• World debut at 2014 Geneva Motor Show (March 4 -5), UK ordering from April, first UK deliveries expected in July
• Powerful 2.0 TFSI produces 300PS and 380Nm
• 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds, electronically limited 155mph top speed, combined 39.8 MPG, CO2 165g/km
• quattro permanent all-wheel drive and S tronic transmission as standard
• Spearhead ‘S’ version now complements entire A3 lineup

An exhilaratingly fresh approach to open-air motoring comes courtesy of Audi next month with the first ever convertible Audi ‘S’ model in the premium compact class. The all-new, 300 PS S3 Cabriolet will star at the Geneva Motor Show, and UK orders are set to start in April. First customer deliveries are expected to commence from July.

From a visual standpoint alone, the Audi S3 Cabriolet cuts an athletic figure. It is 4.43 metres long, has a wheelbase of 2.60 metres, and is 1.79 metres wide and 1.39 metres tall. The proportions are extended and balanced elegantly; precise lines and muscularly arched surfaces define the flanks.

The open-top four-seater has a soft top with an electrohydraulic drive. Magnesium, aluminium and high-strength steel keep its weight low. A highly insulating foam layer in the roof reduces the noise level in the interior. The top is available in three colours. It opens or closes in 18 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 31 mph. An active rollover system protects passengers in the event of an accident.

Many design details hint at the engaging driving potential of the open-top four-seater. The Singleframe grille, surrounded by a chrome frame, features a platinum-grey insert and double cross-struts with an aluminium look. The air intakes are framed by powerful edges and filled with double ribs and honeycomb inserts. S3 badges adorn the front and rear. The 10 paint colours include the exclusive Panther Black, crystal effect.

Aluminium strips on the windshield frame and beltline, aluminium-look exterior mirror housings and edged sill trims define the sides. The taillights are equipped with LEDs as standard. The luggage compartment lid has a spoiler edge, and the bumper has been redesigned. An aluminium-look bar and four vertical ribs give shape to the platinum-grey diffuser, which frames the four tailpipes typical of Audi S models.

The Engine

The Audi S3 Cabriolet is powered by a 2.0 TFSI which delivers 300 PS  between 5,500 rpm and 6,200 rpm and produces 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque from 1,800 to 5,500 rpm. With S tronic the open-top four-seater accelerates to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds. The top speed of 155 mph is limited electronically. When empty (without the driver), the Audi S3 Cabriolet weighs just 1,620 kilograms. The passenger compartment consists primarily of ultra-high-strength steel, and the bonnet is made of aluminium.

The turbocharged 2.0 TFSI, which displaces 1,984 cc (bore x stroke 82.5 x 92.8 millimetres), is a true performance engine. Heavy-duty aluminium pistons and higher-strength connecting rods transmit the forces to the crankshaft. The aluminium-silicon alloy used for the cylinder head combines high thermal stability and strength with minimal weight. Two balance shafts ensure supremely smooth running performance.

When the standard Audi drive select dynamic driving system is operating in dynamic mode, it has a heightened throttle response, and the engine revs up briefly when the S tronic shifts gears. The sound flaps in the exhaust system open as the load and rpms increase.

The turbocharger provides charging pressures of up to 1.2 bar, and a powerful intercooler greatly reduces the temperature of the compressed air. The so-called drumble (swirl and tumble) flaps direct incoming air in a targeted manner. The camshaft can be offset by 60 degrees relative to the crankshaft on the intake side and by 30 degrees on the exhaust side. In addition, the Audi valvelift system (AVS) regulates the valve lift in two stages.

Despite the engaging performance, the Audi S3 Cabriolet with S tronic will return up to 39.8 mpg combined, equating to 165 grams of CO2 per km. The technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform contribute to this impressive figure. Of particular interest here is the additional indirect injection into the intake manifold, which replaces the petrol direct injection FSI in the part-load range, where it lowers fuel consumption and particulate emissions.

And the 2.0 TFSI is also at the leading edge in terms of thermal management. Two rotary valves combined in one module regulate the flow and temperature of the coolant. The exhaust manifold is integrated in the cylinder head where coolant is circulating; this solution reduces the temperature of the exhaust gases, which improves fuel economy at full load. An additional advantage is faster warming of the engine during cold starting. And the friction-lowering coating of the piston skirts, the rolling bearings in the balance shafts, the on-demand oil pump and the start-stop system all do their part to improve efficiency.

Drivetrain

In the standard six-speed S tronic transmission, the bottom gears are close-stepped for a sharper response, whereas the long gear ratio of the top gear lowers rpm and therefore fuel consumption. The driver can operate the lightning-fast dual-clutch transmission in the automatic D and S modes or take control using the gearshift lever in the touch control gate or the standard shift paddles on the steering wheel.

An attractive efficiency function of the six-speed S tronic is the one-way clutch. It becomes active when Audi drive select is in efficiency mode and the driver steps off the accelerator.

quattro

Synonymous with every Audi ‘S’ model, the S3 Cabriolet also makes use of quattro permanent all-wheel drive – the perfect foundation for optimal traction and driving dynamics in all road conditions. Only Audi offers permanent all-wheel drive in the premium compact segment.

Its characteristic strength lies in the enhanced slip-free acceleration, driving dynamics, driving safety and directional stability that it delivers, even in difficult winter conditions. When exiting a corner, it securely transmits its power to the road, while two-wheel-drive competitors have to struggle for grip.

The centerpiece of the quattro drive for the Audi models with transversely mounted engines is the redesigned electronically controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch. The compact, robust clutch is located at the end of the prop shaft, in front of the rear axle differential, where it contributes to the balanced axle distribution despite its relatively low weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath. The metal friction rings are arranged behind one another in pairs – one ring of each pair is rigidly meshed with the housing, which rotates with the prop shaft. The other ring is meshed with the output shaft to the rear axle differential.

In normal conditions, the clutch sends most of the engine’s power to the front wheels. If traction decreases, the clutch can transfer torque continuously to the rear axle by forcing the packages of plates together via controlled action.

Chassis

The chassis with its eager, precise response and high stability brings the dynamic quality of the Audi S3 Cabriolet to perfection. The axle load distribution is superbly balanced at 56:44; the rear-inclined installation position of the engine contributes to this, as does the front axle situated far to the front. Both solutions are from the Group’s modular transverse platform. The subframe and pivot bearing on the front suspension are made of aluminium, and a four-link structure is used for the rear axle.

Compared with the Audi A3 Cabriolet, the body is 25 millimetres lower due to the S Sport chassis. With the standard progressive steering, the rack-and-pinion is designed such that the steering ratio becomes more direct with steering-wheel motion – thus agility and comfort complement each other perfectly. The electromechanical progressive steering, which adapts its assistance to the speed, enables various optional assistance systems.

Measuring 340 mm in diameter, the front brake discs are very large, with black – or optionally red – calipers emblazoned with S3 logos. The electromechanical parking brake is integrated into the rear brake system. The electronic stabilisation control (ESC) manifests itself in a new stage of evolution. Before reaching the handling limits, a finely metered braking torque is applied unnoticeably to the inside front wheels. This improves the car’s agility and complements the work of the quattro drive. The standard Audi drive select dynamic driving system controls the engine, transmission and steering assistance characteristics, as well as the S tronic. The driver can select comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency or individual mode.

The interior

Draped completely in black, the interior of the S3 Cabriolet has a clean, elegant appearance. As with every Audi, its operation is easy and the finish is of superior quality. There is room for two adults in the rear, and the front seats feature an easy entry feature for convenient access to the rear seats. The 285-litre luggage compartment can be expanded by folding down the rear seat backs; its volume is 245 litres when the top is down.

Fine details emphasise the dynamic character of the open-top four-seater. The standard inlays are made of matt brushed aluminium, and many of the controls gleam in an aluminium look. The instrument dials are in S-specific dark grey metallic and the digits and needles are white. A three-dimensional S3 logo and a boost pressure indicator complete the tachometer. The colour driver information system is standard; the power-retractable on-board monitor powers up to display a special S3 screen.

The S sports seats guide and support the body, and the backrests have embossed S3 logos. The upholstery is finished in Fine Nappa leather with S embossing and contrasting stitching. Combinations of Alcantara and leather are available as options. Alternatively, the Parade red design package offers pronounced upper shoulder sections and door trim inserts in Parade red with contrasting stitching. A special colour pigment on all leather trim prevents seats from heating up too much in the sun.

A leather multifunction sport steering wheel is standard with a flat-bottomed rim and shift paddles. Other standard features are the pedals made from brushed stainless-steel. The aluminium door sills bear S3 logos. Other standard features include heated front seats, Xenon plus headlights and the storage and luggage compartment package.

The options

The range of available options is also highly attractive and includes head-level heating in the front seats, LED headlights and the advanced key, to name just a few. MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and a high-resolution seven-inch monitor top the infotainment range. The supplementary Audi connect module delivers the brand’s customised Internet services to the car using the fast LTE standard. The Bang & Olufsen Sound System ups the ante with 13 speakers.

Rest recommendation is equipped as standard, and customers can choose to equip a host of other optional driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control, Audi side assist, Audi active lane assist, park assist with selective display and the Audi pre sense safety system.

Potent new Volkswagen Golf R now available to order in the UK

From today UK customers can place their orders for the most powerful production Golf yet, the 300 PS Golf R, ahead of the first deliveries in March 2014.

Prices for the range-topping R start at £29,900 for the three-door model with six-speed manual gearbox, and £31,315 for the three-door with six-speed DSG gearbox.  The five-door versions cost £30,555 and £31,970 respectively.

At the heart of the R is a newly developed version of the four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged EA888 TSI petrol engine used in the latest Golf GTI, but in this application producing 300 PS from 5,500 to 6,200 rpm and 380 Nm (280 lbs ft) from 1,800 to 5,500 rpm.  Compared with the GTI’s powerplant, the Golf R’s engine has a modified cylinder head, exhaust valves, valve seats and springs, pistons, injection valves and turbocharger.

Zero to 62 mph takes 5.3 seconds (versus 5.7 seconds for previous Golf R), or 4.9 seconds with optional DSG gearbox.  The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.  Despite this increased performance, a combined fuel consumption of 39.8 mpg (40.9 mpg DSG), and CO2 emissions of 165 g/km (159 g/km DSG) make the Golf R up to 18 per cent more efficient than its predecessor.

The R uses a fifth-generation Haldex 4MOTION four-wheel drive system.  Under low loads or when coasting, the rear axle is decoupled, helping to reduce fuel consumption.  Drive to the rear axle can be engaged in fractions of a second via the Haldex coupling, which is actuated by an electro-hydraulic pump.  Almost 100 per cent of power can be transferred to the rear axle.

The ride height is 20 mm lower than the standard Golf’s (5 mm lower than the GTI’s), while Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC) is an option.  For the first time, this offers a ‘Race’ mode, which increases damping, thereby reducing body movements.  In conjunction with the driver profile selector (standard on all Golfs from SE), Race mode also attenuates throttle response, and alters the shift pattern of the DSG gearbox (where fitted).

On top of ESC Sport mode, as found on the GTI and GTD, which delays intervention of the electronic stability control system, the R offers the option fully to disengage the ESC, for track driving.

Like the Golf GTI and GTD, the Golf R is equipped with progressive steering, which reduces the number of turns lock to lock to just 2.1, from 2.75.

Visually, the R is distinguished by its new front bumper design, with large air inlets, modified radiator grille with ‘R’ logo and daytime running lights that are integrated into the standard bi-xenon headlights.  At the side, there are bespoke body-colour sills, and matt chrome-capped door mirrors.

The standard wheels are 18-inch ‘Cadiz’ alloys with 225/40 tyres, while 19-inch ‘Pretoria’ alloys are optional.  The brakes are ventilated discs all round, and measure 30 mm by 340 mm at the front and 22 mm by 310 mm at the rear.

Like all Golf Mk VIIs, the Golf R is lighter than its predecessor, with a kerbweight of 1,476 kg / 1,495 kg for DSG, which is 45 kg / 46 kg less than the Mk VI, and just 94 kg / 93 kg more than the GTI with Performance Pack.

The interior features cloth sports seats with Alcantara bolsters, with leather upholstery available as an option, while the instrument dials are bespoke for the R, and include typical touches such as blue needles.