Volkswagen marks the 25th anniversary of the Golf R by equipping it with Audi's powerful RS3 engine.

The iconic Volkswagen Golf R is set to receive a significant upgrade for its 25th anniversary, as the German automaker prepares to unleash a more powerful version of the mega hatchback.

The 2025 Golf R is expected to produce as much as 401 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, marking a significant jump from the existing Mk8.5 Golf R's output of 328 hp and 310 lb-ft. This power boost positions the Golf R to rival the performance of the Audi RS3, another high-performance hatchback.

If brought to the U.S., the pricing of the five-cylinder Golf R is expected to just undercut the Audi RS3’s, which begins just shy of $70,000. However, no comment was provided by VW regarding the potential availability of the 25th anniversary version of the Golf R in the U.S. when contacted by the media.

The Golf R is likely to share many performance upgrades with the Audi RS3, including a rear torque splitter, brake-torque-vectoring system, and semi-active suspension. VW is also likely to outfit the Golf R with a spicier exhaust similar to the RS Sport Exhaust offered by Audi. The Golf R's brakes will be beefed up, and new wheels celebrating its heritage will be added.

The Golf R, Audi RS3, and their respective refreshes are each described as a bundle of fun. The 2025 Golf R is expected to launch from 0 to 60 mph in less than 3.6 seconds, making it a formidable competitor in the high-performance hatchback market.

The Golf R first arrived in Europe earlier, in 2002 for the 2003 model year. Since then, it has served as the top-shelf model in the U.S. Volkswagen has shared some of its European-only content with its American fans, as seen with the Golf R’s Euro Style package.

VW plans to debut a 25th anniversary version of the Golf R equipped with the EA855 engine used in the RS3 and the Cupra Formentor VZ5. Reports indicate that sales of this special edition Golf R will begin in the U.K. in 2027.

While the planned sales start of the 25th anniversary edition of the Golf R in the United States is not specified in the available search results, fans of the Golf R can expect an exciting new chapter in the history of this iconic vehicle.

The Volkswagen Golf R was first introduced as the Golf R32 with a 3.2-liter narrow-angle VR6 engine. Over the years, it has evolved to possess a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine, reflecting the advancements in automotive technology. The 2025 Golf R is set to continue this tradition of performance and innovation.

In conclusion, the 2025 Volkswagen Golf R is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the high-performance hatchback market. With its increased power, shared performance upgrades with the Audi RS3, and potential competitive pricing, the Golf R is poised to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Let's wait and see how this iconic vehicle continues to evolve and thrill its fans.

Volkswagen marks the 25th anniversary of the Golf R by equipping it with Audi's powerful RS3 engine.