Slated to make its official debut on May 31, the new VW Golf R 333 brings unique gold paint and some performance adjustments to the all-wheel drive hot hatch.
The short teaser doesn’t feature a ton of specifics, but it does give us a good look at some of the adjustments VW made. The gold paint is the most obvious addition, looking far more sophisticated than the select hues on offer for Golf R buyers. A bespoke graphics package also runs along the bottom of the doors, matching the black mirror caps on either flank. We can also see a set of the brand’s 19-inch Estoril wheels, behind which sit a set of blue brake calipers. VW has also fitted the Golf R 333 Limited Edition models with an Akrapovič exhaust system, complete with four tips in a bright finish. That’ll surely make it sound great.
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While that’s about all that VW has confirmed so far, there are further hints as to what we can expect in its name. Last year, VW released a few different takes on a Golf R 20 Years special edition model for its various global markets. In Europe, that anniversary model came equipped with a variant of the 2.0-liter turbo-four making 328 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. If you measure that output in German Pferdestärke, that figure jumps to a round 333 PS. It is then not unlikely to assume a similarly trimmed engine will find its way to the Golf R 333. That will also make the Golf R 333 tied for the title of most powerful Golf model yet.
We expect that high-output engine to come mated to either a six-speed manual or VW’s dual-clutch automatic, but VW could also limit the package to one gearbox. Similarly equipped 20 Years models are capable of reaching 62 mph in 4.6 seconds.
Whether or not VW decides to bring the Golf R 333 to the U.S. or not, here’s hoping we don’t get another watered down take like with the 20 Years models. With VW rumored to ditch the ICE-powered Golf altogether after the eighth generation, this might represent one of out last chances at a proper limited-edition hot hatch.
Born and raised in Metro Detroit, associate editor Lucas Bell has spent his entire life surrounded by the automotive industry. He may daily drive an aging Mustang, but his Porsche 944 and NB Miata both take up most of his free time.