The Volkswagen R journey began in 2002 with the Golf R32, expanding over the years to include models such as the Passat R, Scirocco R, Polo R WRC and even crossover versions such as the Tiguan and Touareg. In 2024, however, Volkswagen intends to make R a stand-alone brand.
The strategy includes the creation of a dedicated Volkswagen R section within the Autostadt theme park in Wolfsburg. This attraction, similar to BMW Welt in Munich, attracts around two million visitors a year and showcases various brands of the VW Group. The new R Park, with an area of 1,076 square meters, will debut this summer. It will offer enthusiasts the chance to view concept cars and limited-edition models, including high-performance electric cars, as the R line transitions to electrification. The Touareg R, equipped with a hybrid V-6 powertrain, is an early example of this change.
Despite the focus on electric drives, the Volkswagen R remains committed to internal combustion engines. The upcoming Golf R facelift, expected this summer, will unfortunately miss out on a manual gearbox, much to the disappointment of enthusiasts.
The decision to separate Volkswagen R from the main brand began in 2020, when it became a separate business unit. The move mirrors similar initiatives within the VW Group, such as the creation of the stand-alone Cupra brand for high-performance models from SEAT and the status of Audi Sport as a separate unit within Audi.