What's the Difference Between the Golf R and the Golf GTI?

Volkswagen Golf R
Volkswagen Golf GTI

The VW Golf GTI or VWGolf R: Which One Should You Buy?

Compact sports cars are a big hit these days with motorists near Fort Collins. Two of our favorite vehicles at Ed Carroll Volkswagen are the Volkswagen Golf GTI and the Volkswagen Golf R. What's not to love about these two? They've got turbo-charged engines, sport-tuned performance boosts, and plenty of additional features. Could it be possible to pick one over the other? Well, let's take a closer look at their features.

Performance Comparison

There are some slight performance differences between these two VW compacts. The VW Golf GTI produces 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque with its 2.0-Liter turbo-charged engine. The VW Golf R produces 315 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque with special performance tuning. That might seem like a big difference, but both of these speedy VW compacts can move with authority. Both have a six speed manual gearbox for more controlled driving near Boulder and Denver. The Volkswagen Golf R has all-wheel drive, but both have sport-tuned suspension for better handling.

Differences and Similarities in Style

You'd be forgiven for mistaking the Golf GTI for the Golf R at a quick and casual glance. The Volkswagen R has some exterior style elements like silver mirror caps and distinctive R badges. Otherwise, it looks a lot like the VW Golf GTI if you're cruising around Thornton and Westminster. The VW Golf GTI SE model comes with a power tilting/sliding panoramic sunroof, 18-inch wheels, and LED lights all around. The Golf GTI is handsome and sporty, just like the Golf R.

Interior Features

Prospective buyers can count on Ed Carroll Volkswagen in Fort Collins to introduce you to all the best interior features and tech options available. When you look at the equipment list of these two compacts, you'll find a lot of similarities. Both have 30 color adjustable interior lighting, 60/40 split-folding rear seats for more storage room, and stainless-steel pedal caps. Both the Golf GTI and the Golf R come with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats. So, if a VW Golf R is hard to find in your area, you could get lucky and find some of the same interior features on the VW Golf GTI.

Safety Gear from Volkswagen

Motorists near Boulder and Denver want a sporty new compact with top safety features. You might assume that the VW Golf R has more standard safety features, but Volkswagen doesn't compromise on your safety. The VW Golf GTI comes with the same crash-optimized front end and Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) as the VW Golf R. The Volkswagen Golf GTI costs less than the Golf R, but still comes with a rearview camera and the same full complement of advanced air bags for your safety.

At the Finish Line

There's so much to love about both the Volkswagen Golf GTI and the VW Golf R. We can understand if motorists in Fort Collins have trouble choosing a favorite. Yet, the Volkswagen Golf GTI has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $29,880 and the VW Golf R has an MSRP of $44,090.

The Golf GTI also has similar interior features and safety systems in place. It must be said that the Golf R is a bit faster and has all-wheel drive as a standard feature, but the Golf GTI can be just as fun to drive. There really isn't a loser here.

In the end, you're the ultimate judge in this friendly competition, but if you're still on the fence about these two models, you can check our online inventory to see which ones are available near you. But don't hesitate to contact us and reserve your new Volkswagen because these hot hatchbacks are moving fast.


We're sorry, availability of some equipment, options or features may be limited due to global supply issues affecting the auto industry. Please be sure to verify that the vehicle you purchase includes all expected features and equipment.