On the back of the hype surrounding the all-new Volkswagen Golf Mk8, most of you might have forgotten that the locally-assembled Volkswagen Golf R-Line doesn’t have a price yet. That’s now been addressed by Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) as they’ve announced pricing start from RM 169,990.

The all-new model retains the timeless Golf design but is sportier and more expressive thanks to the R-Line styling. Designed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind, the C-signature front bumper sits lower to the ground for a more responsive performance. Its sporty appearance is completed with 17-inch Valencia alloy wheels and a pair of trapezoid faux exhaust tailpipes because you need a reminder you couldn’t afford a GTI at least.

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Under the hood, the R-line is powered by a 1.4-litre TSI turbocharged engine that is paired with an 8-speed automatic shift by wire transmission. The engine makes 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque.

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As the most progressive generation of Golf, the R-Line is equipped with enhanced digitalisation for seamless connectivity and convenience. Intuitive operation of the vehicle is supported by an intelligent voice control system, easily activated by saying “Hello Volkswagen” or by pressing the voice button on the steering wheel.

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Voice recognition and voice quality (for phone calls) are seamless, as they can locate the person who is speaking (driver or front passenger) and respond accordingly, for example by identifying which interior zone’s temperature needs adjusting.

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“We are proud to be able to locally assemble the iconic Golf in Malaysia. It is also a great opportunity to own a Golf that is made by Malaysians, for Malaysians, especially with the technological advancement and features in this latest generation. Simply put, the all-new, all-digital Golf R-Line is an aspiration. It is the hatchback that you want to be seen in,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.

The Golf R-Line comes with full LED headlights and taillights as well as the signature narrow LED illumination strip that runs across the front of the vehicle.

Inside, the R-Line moniker ensures that you’ll be seated in front sports seats wrapped in Sardegna fabric and Art Velours side bolsters for comfort, complete with the R-line logo embossed on the headrest. Furthermore, the 30-colour ambient lighting can be linked to driving modes, or simply in accordance with moods and preferences.

A pleasant and comfortable interior environment is further ensured with the triple-zone Climatronic air-conditioning. Adjust the temperature with the touch slider or simply through voice control. There are two main modes for this, the Smart Climate and Classic Climate, and each comes with various helpful functions.

Space remains a priority in this iconic hatchback as it offers plenty of room for all the family in the interior, whereas its 381-litre luggage compartment can fit large pieces of sports and recreational equipment as well.

Another smart feature of the vehicle is that it gives quick entry access by automatically unlocking the doors when vehicle key is within the detection zone.

Key safety features include stability control, Post Collision Braking System that prevents a second collision, Electronic Differential Lock (XDS) that improves traction and reduce understeer and six airbags among others.

The Golf R-Line is available in five colours, Moonstone Grey, Kings Red, Atlantic Blue, Deep Black and Oryx White.