When it came to the running gear, development engineers adopted the first-class system of the current production Golf. This means: In front the familiar McPherson strut suspension with helical springs and telescoping shock absorbers; at the rear a multi-link suspension ensures that the standard ESP system seldom needs to intervene. The basic layout was transformed into a sport chassis with ride-height lowered 25 millimetres, and the springs, dampers and stabilisers were completely re-tuned to this new configuration. Also available as an option is DCC dynamic chassis control whose character was fully tuned to the Golf R. This system continually adapts suspension damping to the roadway and driving situation. In addition to the standard "Normal" mode, the driver can manually activate a "Sport" or "Comfort" mode.
The brake system was also modified for the Golf R's higher level of driving performance. Instead of a 16-inch system, a 17-inch brake system is used; all brakes have internally ventilated discs and R-specific brake callipers painted a high-gloss black with R-logo. In front the discs are 345 millimetres in diameter, and 310 millimetres at the rear. The electronic stabilisation program (ESP) was also modified. It can be switched to a new Sport mode via the ESP button. During very fast and curve-filled drives – as on a circuit – the ESP system delays intervention, enabling even more responsive handling properties. The electro-mechanical power-assisted steering was given a sportier characteristic as well. If the Golf R is ordered with optional DCC dynamic chassis control, the power-assisted steering is given a specially tuned characteristic for each of the system's driving modes ("Sport", "Normal", "Comfort").
The running gear maintains its contact with the road via new 18-inch alloy wheels ("Talladega" type in "Sterling Silver" colour) with 225/40 tyres as standard equipment. The same style wheels are available in a 19-inch version with 235/35 tyres as an option. Customers can also order the 19-inch wheels in "Glossy Black". Regardless of the colour, when 19-inch wheels are selected the headlight housings always appear completely in black, and the Golf R windows are tinted from the B-pillars back.
Note:
Equipment information and technical data apply to models offered in Germany. They may differ in other countries. All information subject to change and correction.
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