2022 Volkswagen Golf R wagon revealed, Australian launch due early 2022

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R wagon has been unveiled, ahead of its Australian launch early next year.

Known as the Estate or Variant in other markets, the new Golf R wagon blends the go-fast mechanicals and sporty styling of Volkswagen's latest all-wheel-drive hot hatch with the more practical body of a wagon.

There's 611 litres of space on offer behind the rear seats, expanding to 1642 litres with the second row folded flat. Shopping bag hooks, eye clips, a luggage net, 12-volt socket and a full household power point in the boot all aid practicality, along with a hands-free power tailgate.

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It also features a retractable tow bar capable of pulling up to 1900kg (braked).

Power comes from the same 235kW/420Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and variable all-wheel drive system as the hatch, though the wagon's increased weight extends the 0-100km/h time from 4.7 to 4.9 seconds.

Top speed is rated at 250km/h in standard form, or 270km/h with the optional R Performance Package – the latter also adding 19-inch 'Estoril' alloy wheels (replacing 18-inch units), and Special and Drift driving modes.

The Golf R wagon is slated to retain the hatch's sharp chassis and dynamics, including its torque-vectoring rear differential, stiffer suspension, 20mm-lower ride height, 358mm front brake discs, and sticky Bridgestone or Michelin tyres.

Also carried over from the hatch is the styling, with more aggressive front and rear bumpers, quad exhaust tips and larger side skirts.

The interior is similar, too, benefiting from the 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and suede and fabric-trimmed R sports seats.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R wagon will go on sale in Australia in early 2022, with a local launch expected in February.

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