Recently, while visiting the scenic seaside of Porto Martins for a family lunch, I came across a striking Lapiz Blue Volkswagen Golf 7R.
Known for being one of the most well-rounded performance hatchbacks on the market, this U-plated Golf 7R seamlessly blends the practicality of a daily driver with the thrill of a track-ready machine. Allow me to guide you through some features that make this car so special.
Under the hood lies a 2.0-liter turbocharger TSI engine delivering 296 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque, producing an unmistakable growl from its quad exhaust tips and hinting at its impressive performance capabilities. To complete the package, the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system launches this hatchback from 0 to 100 in 5.1 seconds.
I’ve always been a big fan of Volkswagen and blue happens to be one of my favorite colors, so with such impressive numbers attached to these looks, at this moment I can confidently say: “I’m sold!”
Exterior-wise, I’ve always liked the Golf, ever since its first generation, for maintaining a subtle yet agressive design – and the 7R is no exception. The R badging, larger air intakes and signature quad exhaust tips give it a sporty presence without being over-the-top. The 19-inch Cadiz alloy wheels enhance the car’s aggressive stance while the LED headlights add a modern and sleek look.
Unfortunately I wasn’t able to step inside, but from what I could see, the Golf 7R doesn’t disappoint. Its sporty interior, combined with premium materials, reminds the driver of its track-ready capabilities.
I still remember when I first saw a four-door hot Golf in person – a fifth-generation Diamond Pearl Black GTI. I was thrilled because it stood out from the usual three-door hot hatches of the time. Now, however, I feel a bit sad about the extinction of the three-door bodystyle. Despite that, the 7R remains a pratical daily driver, and while I believe a hot hatch is best served with three doors only, I also accept and recognize this as an excellent example of a modern hot hatch, blending power, agility and practicality.
