The Volkswagen Golf R returns for 2025 with updates inside and out. Most notably, the grippy, grown-up Golf range-topper gets a power bump to the tune of 14 horsepower. As a result, the Golf R produces the same horsepower as the Ford Mustang V8s of yesteryear.  

The upcoming 2025 Volkswagen Golf R will remain atop Hot Hatch Hill with 329 horsepower

The Volkswagen Golf R will get an update for 2025. No surprise there; the Volkswagen Golf GTI is also getting a refresh for the new model. However, fans are excited at the news that the new Golf R will gain 14 horsepower and more aggressive aero. That’s 329 horsepower courtesy of the hatchback’s turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine. 

Of course, the Golf R isn’t a new champion among hot hatches. The previous R model could hit 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. That’s not just enough to outrun a comparable Honda Civic Type R by the better part of one second, it’s enough to keep pace with a 486-horsepower Ford Mustang GT and its 5.0L Coyote V8.

Not only is the upcoming Golf R as quick as a current, seventh-generation Ford Mustang GT, but it’s more powerful than past V8-powered ‘Stangs as well. For instance, a fifth-generation Mustang GT produced 300 horsepower from the factory, 15 fewer than the Golf R. However, the 2008 and 2009 Ford Mustang Bullitt produced 315 horsepower from the same 4.6L V8 as the GT, albeit with tweaks like an exhaust system and cold air intake (CAI). 

As such, the outgoing Golf R matched the horsepower of the movie-homage Mustang. That is until the 2025 Volkswagen Golf R got its power bump. Paired with the hot hatchback’s grippy AWD system, we expect the new model to hit 60 mph in 4.0 seconds or less. That’s rarified air for utilitarian hatchbacks.