Skip advert
Advertisement

Volkswagen Golf R review – MPG and running costs

MPG ratings in the high 30s are quoted, low 30s are realistic

Evo rating
RRP
from £44,535
  • Engine still pulls, refinement and capability
  • Every dynamic element still falls short compared to past form

There’s plenty of emphasis on fuel saving in 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.

Advertisement - Article continues below

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 £157 each at current prices.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Best convertible cars 2025 – evo's favourite open-air thrillers
Best convertible cars
Best cars

Best convertible cars 2025 – evo's favourite open-air thrillers

There's nothing quite like an open-top performance car – these are the best of the current crop
28 Jul 2025
Jaguar C-X75 – dead on arrival
Jaguar C-X75 front
Features

Jaguar C-X75 – dead on arrival

It's unimaginable now but here was a Jaguar concept that absolutely everyone loved... and mourned when it didn't make production
22 Jul 2025
BMW M3 CS Touring 2025 review – the ultimate everyday performance car
BMW M3 CS Touring – front
Reviews

BMW M3 CS Touring 2025 review – the ultimate everyday performance car

BMW gives the M3 Touring the CS treatment and creates another absolute dream of a driver’s car – but it comes with an eye-watering price tag
28 Jul 2025