For the 2019 model year, Volkswagen adjusted the Golf R’s powertrain to cover the new WLTP regulations by fiddling with the EA888’s software and incorporating new petrol particulate filters into the exhaust. The result was a loss of 10bhp, not to mention the manual transmission and three-door bodystyle. One might be disenchanted, but German tuner Abt might have a solution, with a new software upgrade available to more than reverse the damage.
Based solely around the Golf R’s software, Abt’s new Engine Control unit builds power up from the standard Golf R’s 296bhp to a more substantial 345bhp. Torque is up too, peaking at 325lb ft, some 30lb ft more than standard.
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> 2019 Volkswagen Golf R review - the art of having your cake and eating it too
As before, Abt also offers a variety of suspension upgrades, with lowered springs, uprated dampers and a new anti-roll bar designed to stiffen up the standard Golf R’s suspension package.
Wheel packages between 18 and 20 inches are also available, the latter size an inch bigger than Volkswagen offers from the factory, while there is also a black quad exhaust system to give your Golf R a subtly distinctive look.
As is usually the case with Abt’s performance packages, it doesn’t substantially change the Golf R’s multifaceted personality. Rather it just adds an extra sharpness and aggression to the upper reaches of the R’s capability. The package is available now through Abt’s UK suppliers.
