Please clap: Volkswagen has officially unveiled the new Golf R. The newest VW hatch, with about 20 horsepower more than the standard Mk8.5 Golf and the new Golf GTI, has arrived.

This results in a somewhat more powerful 333 horsepower for the R's 2.0-liter four-pot direct injection engine, which is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. Increased power and the ability to produce 420 Nm of torque from 2,100 rpm allow the 0-100 kph sprint to happen in 4.6 seconds instead of 4.7.

The maximum speed, uh, is 250 kph, but the optional Performance Package raises that to 270 kph. According to VW, the 8.5 R's performance is comparable to that of the Arteon R Shooting Brake.

The four-pot's electronic coolant regulator unit has been modified to improve its thermal management, and according to what we've been informed, Volkswagen even adjusted the ignition to produce a more expressive (i.e., good and loud) sound, which is further improved by the Akrapovic titanium exhaust.

According to VW, the all-wheel-drive R ought to be less thirsty and more dynamic. Even a "eco" driving mode has been included, though we doubt anyone in a R would use it anytime soon.

The facelifted Mk8.5's whole set of changes, including a new front end with a thinner grille, 3D LED headlights, and an illuminated VW emblem, are available for both variants. Additionally, the optional ultra-lightweight Warmenau 19-inch alloys and revised bumpers with air curtains are said to increase stability and better withstand thermal stress.

The interior has a new 12.9-inch display, an upgraded infotainment system, and an IDA voice assistant powered by ChatGPT. Additionally, a GPS lap timer and an improved G-meter are included with the Performance package, which is optional.

We are really fascinated by the new Golf R Black Edition, though. The Black Edition's history revolved around giving a less risky engine package a Golf R appearance. Is this a Golf R that looks like one?

It does seem elegant, though. Including the more expensive 19-inch wheels, black VW insignia, black tailpipe trims, black brake calipers, and darkened IQ matrix lights, everything is glossy black. It's rather, um, gloomy.

It includes seven driving modes, including the "Special" and "Drift" modes created at the Nurburgring, and additional downforce thanks to a larger roof spoiler. Volkswagen says it has "increased the trigger activation" to avoid inadvertent beginning of the "Race" mode, which is activated by a blue button on the steering wheel.Who continued to press the button at the school gates, then? Come clean.