VW's Last Pure Gas Golf R Might House a Five-Cylinder Beast | Carscoops

      It appears that Volkswagen may finally deliver on a promise it has been hinting at for more than a decade.

      The upcoming 2027 Golf R is said to feature Audi's 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, boasting an impressive 400 hp.

      The updates will include suspension enhancements, the RS3’s torque splitter, and bold aerodynamic modifications.

      This model will be the last traditional petrol Golf before Volkswagen shifts towards hybrid and electric powertrains.

      Volkswagen certainly knows how to keep its fans intrigued. After years of suggesting the return of the Bus, we saw the introduction of the ID.Buzz. Although it didn’t meet all expectations, it is a commendable, if flawed, attempt. Now, after a decade of hinting at a high-performance hatchback, it seems Wolfsburg may finally be prepared to realize this vision, and we might not even need to wait for the all-electric Golf R for it to come to fruition.

      Back in 2014, the R 400 concept was the first indication that such a powerful car was in the pipeline. VW indicated a production version was forthcoming, but it never materialized. This isn’t the first instance of an automaker going back on its word, and surely it won’t be the last. However, for the 25th anniversary of the Golf R, it appears the company is finally poised to deliver the performance enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating, thanks to Audi's acclaimed five-cylinder engine.

      A High-Performance Five-Pot

      Rather than the familiar 2.0-liter four-cylinder, this special edition is expected to feature the RS3’s 2.5-liter turbo five-cylinder engine, which we have previously tested and appreciated. In its current configuration, it produces nearly 400 hp (294 kW) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. If this engine fits into the Golf without modifications, it would be a significant upgrade from the 328 hp (241 kW) Golf R currently available, fulfilling the long-standing promise of the R 400.

      According to Autocar, the RS3-powered Golf R is expected to debut in 2027. Audi is currently working on re-engineering the engine to meet the EU's stricter emissions standards. Meanwhile, Volkswagen appears to be focused on ensuring that the Golf chassis can manage this level of power. The updated model will feature additional bracing, enhanced suspension geometry, and a unique feature.

      Performance to Match the Power

      This unique feature is Audi's advanced torque-splitting rear differential. Having experienced it firsthand, I can attest that it dramatically improves handling in cars like the RS3 (and, of course, the Golf R). Upgrades will also include larger brakes, semi-slick Bridgestone tires, and forged wheels to enhance performance.

      It’s notable that we recently spotted a mysterious Golf prototype with a vented hood, larger intakes, an aggressive diffuser, and a new rear spoiler. While we cannot confirm that this test vehicle has a five-cylinder engine under the hood, the timing is too coincidental to ignore.

      Volkswagen has introduced many special edition Golfs over the years, along with numerous concepts, but none have truly lived up to the promise of the R 400. Still, we hope this report proves to be accurate. After all, it’s better to deliver late than never, right?