New Volkswagen Golf R spotted for the first time on test run out… with iconic model nearing switch to all-electric

THE last petrol-powered Volkswagen Golf R has been spotted during a test run ahead of its launch next year.

Snapshots of the car at the Nurburgring - suggest it has undergone a makeover from the previous Mk8 model.

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The new four-wheel-drive range-topper is set to gain a series of styling updates and an interior makeover as part of an extensive facelift for the 'MK8.5'.

It's expected to be the final petrol-powered Golf - with the following ninth generation set to go electric around 2028.

Photos of the new model hint at a subtle revision of the exterior - the new model will have slimmer headlights and a reworked larger lower bumper.

Both the hatchback and the estate models were pictured at the track.

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The hatch model appeared to be riding on 19-inch wheels and also featured a large rear wing and a titanium exhaust commonly used for Performance Pack models.

Underneath the bonnet, car experts are certain it will retain its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

At the moment the current R model gets 320bhp and can reach 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds.

The interior of VW's new model will see the biggest change compared to the MK8.

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VW has done extensive work on fixing the usability and reliability problems that the infotainment system in the MK8 Golf suffered with since its launch.

Photos of the MK8.5 golf suggest that it will get a new 12.9-inch touchscreen along with a 10.4-inch digital instrument display.

It is likely that a 15-inch infotainment screen will be offered as an option.

VW will also address a major criticism of the MK8 Golf from motorists by introducing new light-up touch-sensitive sliders for climate control and audio volume.

The New MK8.5 Golf will likely hit the roads early next year with the new R model coming out a few months after that.

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