A step up from the base Golf R, the Volkswagen Golf R 2-Door with Sunroof and Navigation makes its debut for 2012 with a turbocharged powerplant and an upscale cabin equipped with a wide range of convenience and tech features. It receives a number of features not found on the base Golf R, including a power sunroof, a navigation system with a touchscreen, push-button start and an 8-speaker, 300-watt Dynaudio audio system with HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, a CD/MP3 player, Bluetooth, an iPod port and an auxiliary input jack. Leather upholstery comes standard, with the front sport seats getting supportive side bolsters and 8-way manual adjustment, while the rear seat splits 60/40 and folds down to expand cargo space. The cabin also comes equipped with a number of unique R-design features, including a leather-wrapped shift knob and a multifunction leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with black-gloss spokes. In addition, the Golf R 2-Door with Sunroof and Navigation gets a number of additional unique features, including aluminum pedals, aluminum trim on the dash and doors, unique instrument gauges with blue needles and R logos on the sill plates and front seats. Climatronic automatic dual-zone climate control, cruise control and a keyless remote are among the other standard interior features.
A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, borrowed from the Audi TT 2-door sport hatchback, powers the Golf R 2-Door with Sunroof and Navigation. The engine pumps out 256 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque, and links to a close-ratio, short-throw 6-speed manual shifter designed for high-torque operation. VW also includes its 4Motion all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which ensures optimal traction and stability. Fuel economy numbers check in at 19 mpg city/27 highway. Six airbags come standard, along with electronic stability control and antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist. In addition, in certain types of collisions, an Intelligent Crash Response System shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors and turns on the hazard lights. Outside, the Golf R 2-Door with Sunroof and Navigation receives a restyled front end with a new bumper, a black-gloss radiator grille, 3 large front air intakes, LED daytime running lights and black-framed HID headlights with an Adaptive Front Lighting System. Other exterior features include flared side skirts, exterior mirrors with a black-gloss finish, a new rear bumper, a black-gloss diffuser, dual centered exhaust pipes and 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.