Volkswagen Golf R review – MPG and running costs
MPG ratings in the high 30s are quoted, low 30s are realistic
There’s plenty of emphasis on fuel saving in the new Golf R with its particulate filters, eco modes and dual-clutch ’box, yet like all these New-Age high-performance fours, hard use will see MPG figures drop way down from those claimed. VW quotes an official rating of 36.2mpg, but this will easily drop to the mid-20s when pushing hard.
In contrast, a gentle motorway cruise will see the R comfortably crack 40mpg, the variation in fuel usage a clear signal of how much development and technology has been integrated into the venerable EA888.
Your biggest friend when it comes to running costs is the Golf R’s rock-solid residuals, often making the R cheaper to buy on a lease or PCP finance option than more affordable rivals of a similar demeanour. The threat to this are all the options, which will never retain as much value percentage-wise as the car itself.
Most UK Golf Rs on the 19-inch wheel run on 235/35 R19 Bridgestone S005 rubber, which will set you back a not unreasonable £166 each at current prices. Volkswagen also type-approved Michelin Cup 2 rubber for overseas markets – this is a tyre we’ve yet to sample on a modern Golf R.
