Once out of reach, the Audi RS3’s five-cylinder might finally find its way into the Golf R
Volkswagen Group seems to be saving the best for last. Its turbocharged five-cylinder is nearing retirement, but not before the 2.5 TFSI finds a home in a hardcore Golf. According to Autocar, Audi’s RS3 engine will power a range-topping Golf R to mark the 25th anniversary of the R sub-brand in 2027.
This isn’t the first time the idea has surfaced. Back in 2020, there was talk of squeezing the “EA855” five-pot into the Golf, but Audi reportedly blocked it. That stance has since softened, with Cupra already using the engine in the Formentor VZ5, where it makes nearly 400 hp.
Spy shots hint that VW is testing prototypes, including a beefier Golf R and even a modified RS3 at the Nürburgring. Audi Sport’s boss has also suggested the inline-five still has untapped performance potential. While cars like the Donkervoort F22 push it to nearly 500 hp, VW’s version would likely stay closer to 400 hp. Despite bigger brakes and chassis upgrades, the Golf R would only gain about 55 pounds.
That would make it the most powerful Golf ever—over 400 hp sent through a seven-speed DSG, as the manual is no longer offered. VW could even add the RS3’s torque-vectoring rear differential, potentially giving it a shot at beating the Golf GTI Edition 50’s Nürburgring record of 7:46.13.
Pricing will be steep. The Golf R333 already costs €76,410 in Germany, while a standard Golf R starts at €55,540. U.S. buyers get a relative bargain at $48,325, but the five-cylinder version will almost certainly carry a premium.
So why pick a Golf over an RS3? Body style plays a role—the RS3 is sedan-only in America, leaving hatch fans to VW. Globally, the 2.5-liter R would appeal to enthusiasts wanting the ultimate combustion-powered Golf before the fully electric Mk9 takes over next decade.
With the inline-five already retired from the TT RS and RS Q3, giving it a sendoff in VW’s flagship hot hatch seems like the perfect farewell. After all, the clock is ticking for gas engines in Europe—it’s now or never.
