New 2020 Volkswagen Golf R estate spotted for the first time

Undisguised prototypes of the new Golf R, tipped for an unveiling before the end of 2020, have already revealed the hot hatchback's production styling, but we've now had our first glimpse of the estate variant.

The prototype appears to be masquerading as the off-road-inspired Alltrack version of the new Golf, but it gives itself away as the top-rung performance model with its large wheels and low-profile tyres, blue brake calipers, prominent air intakes and rear spoiler. Another clue to its true identity is the quad-exit exhaust system, which matches that of the previously spotted Golf R test mules. 

A prototype of the hatchback was photographed up close earlier this year, giving us a view of the interior. It shows the new model sticks to the formula of its predecessor, with understated performance the order of the day. The view inside shows that there will be R-branded sports seats to mark out the cabin, but otherwise it'll be familiar Golf Mk8 fare. 

Although not yet confirmed, power outputs for all of the hot Mk8 Golf variants (the GTI, GTI TCR, GTD and R) leaked out earlier this year via a slideshow from a brand presentation. 

The slide revealed that the R will put out 329bhp - a 33bhp increase - from a heavily boosted version of the EA888 turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol motor, as featured in the new Tiguan R and Arteon R. As before, this will be put through a Haldex-based four-wheel drive system and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, while a new torque vectoring system is expected to be introduced. A manual gearbox isn't expected to be offered.  

The new Haldex system is said to be capable of fully variable control, constantly altering the drive sent to the front and rear axles, in combination with Volkswagen's XDS+ electronic differential locks and a stability control system that, insiders claim, will incorporate a drift mode similar to that of the Mercedes-AMG A45. 

Although it's not official yet, Autocar understands that the 2020 Golf R had been planned for an unveiling at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK, which had originally been rescheduled from July to September but has now been cancelled entirely. It's not yet clear precisely when VW will reveal the model, although insiders suggest it could be in late summer or early autumn.