WATCH NOW: 2016 VW Golf R LIVE-STREAM Debut [Video]

The 2016 VW Golf R is ready for its TFLcar LIVE-STREAM debut at 6:30pm MST!
The 2016 VW Golf R is ready for its TFLcar LIVE-STREAM debut at 6:30pm PST!

Though details on the 2015 VW Golf R are thus far limited, we do know this.  Powered by a 292-HP turbocharged four-cylinder engine, all-wheel-drive and a six-speed automatic transmission, the newest, hottest golf will surely pack a punch.  Never fear, VW says a six-speed manual version will be available by mid-2015.

Watch Roman LIVE-STREAM the 2015 VW Golf R’s debut below:

While the 2016 VW Golf R shares some componentry with the 2015 Audi S3, the vehicles are said to be very different in personality.  Starting MSRPs are also within a few ticks of one another, with the Golf R ringing up $37,415 to start, and the S3 commencing at a loftier $41,000.

Even so, the 2016 VW Golf R nets you a decent amount of equipment and serious performance credibility for its price.  Besides the aforementioned 292 HP, available six-speed manual and standard all-wheel-drive, the R adds a lowered suspension (0.2-inches less than the GTI), quad exhaust tips, and subtle styling accoutrement.

Ticking off all of the options is projected to run you just shy of $40k, but still, that’s less than the starting price of the Audi S3.

Interior aesthetics aside, then, the 2016 VW Golf R seems like a bit of a better deal.  The question is, will it ultimately be worth more than the 2015 Subaru WRX STI, which starts at $35,290?

Stay tuned for a full review of the 2016 VW Golf R soon.  In the meantime, check out or first-drive review of its little brother, the 2015 Volkswagen GTI, below: