Volkswagen Golf R Hatchback: sports car performance with hatchback practicality

Price: £29,900 - £31,970

Pros: Powerful engine, four wheel-drive grip, stylish looks

Cons: Compromised practicality, significantly more expensive that the Golf GTI

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3.9/5 Car buyer ''Based on the seventh generation of the VW Golf, the R offers huge power and lots of fun but the standard GTI costs significantly less and will probably be fast enough for most drivers. Developed to be the fastest Golf in the current VW range, the R is a more focused version of the iconic GTI and is available in both three and five-door options. The turbo-charged engine delivers performance which rivals some 911’s, but given the hefty price-tag its worth considering whether the car is really that much better than the standard GTI version.''

4.0/5.0 Auto Express ''The new Volkswagen Golf R is an incredibly fast car, but is it honestly better value than a standard GTI? The asking price may seem crazy, but the Golf R is the fastest production hatchback VW has ever made and it comes with allot more performance and engineering thrown in. The engine is a reworked 2.0-litre turbo offering 79bhp more than the standard GTI, and with a classy yet subtle aesthetic, the R stands out without being overly aggressive.''

4.0/5.0 What Car? ''It’s no exaggeration to say that the 269bhp engine that comes as standard in the new Golf R offers true giant-slaying performance. In a straight line this car would quite easily hassle some exotica costing twice as much, yet despite the impressive performance, the R still manages to offer good fuel economy (39.8mpg). So if a Golf GTI isn’t quite fast enough for you, but you’re looking for reasonable running costs and easy everyday use, the new Golf R should definitely be on your shortlist.''

5.0/5.0 EVO ''In mk7 form, the Volkswagen Golf R is a real have-your-cake-and-eat-it proposition: a thing of class and quality, but also a car that elevates the hot hatch to another level thanks to an addictive combination of pace and a truly impressive driving experience. Its closest rival in terms of spec and image is the Audi S3, but the VW is cheaper and more engaging. In simple terms the Golf R is a revelation.''