Used 2016 Volkswagen Golf R for SaleNationwide
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Limestone Gray Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 104,034
- Stock #:
- GW026088
- VIN:
- WVWLF7AU7GW026088

2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD
104,034 mi
$20,094
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Lapiz Blue Metallic - L9L9
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black - BR
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 89,537
- Stock #:
- FW277515
- VIN:
- WVWLF7AU7FW277515

2015 Volkswagen Golf R
AWD
89,537 mi
$18,422
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Deep Black Pearl
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 61,334
- Stock #:
- 3893
- VIN:
- WVWVF7AU2HW160209

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
61,334 mi
$24,388
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 97,507
- Stock #:
- TL 028939c
- VIN:
- WVWVF7AU4HW028939

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
97,507 mi
$20,999
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 96,908
- Stock #:
- T1014485
- VIN:
- WVWLF7AU2FW224849

2015 Volkswagen Golf R
AWD
96,908 mi
$20,189
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 106,665
- Stock #:
- CU7130
- VIN:
- WVWVF7AU8HW157802

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
106,665 mi
$18,791
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Deep Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 41,027
- Stock #:
- FW328125
- VIN:
- WVWLF7AU9FW328125

2015 Volkswagen Golf R
AWD
41,027 mi
$25,494
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Deep Black Pearl
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Manual
- Mileage:
- 74,788
- Stock #:
- B49743B
- VIN:
- WVWUF7AU8GW061453

2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door with DCC and Navigation
74,788 mi
$20,690
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Lapiz Blue Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Manual
- Mileage:
- 66,101
- Stock #:
- PHW137387
- VIN:
- WVWWF7AU4HW137387

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
66,101 mi
$27,250
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Oryx White Pearl
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 65,455
- Stock #:
- V8994SRS
- VIN:
- WVWLF7AU6GW126411

-$500
2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door with DCC and Navigation
65,455 mi
$22,617
$22,117
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Oryx White Pearl Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 123,391
- Stock #:
- N23892TR
- VIN:
- WVWVF7AU4HW092317

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
123,391 mi
$16,819
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Deep Black Pearl Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 55,095
- Stock #:
- G26485B
- VIN:
- WVWVF7AU2HW158184

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
55,095 mi
$26,595
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Deep Black Pearl Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 74,454
- Stock #:
- CC8583D
- VIN:
- WVWVF7AU3HW167041

-$500
2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
74,454 mi
$24,433
$23,933
About 2016 Volkswagen Golf R
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 81,626
- Stock #:
- 2480
- VIN:
- WVWLF7AU1GW172390

2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD
81,626 mi
$18,998
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Oryx White Pearl
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Manual
- Mileage:
- 99,066
- Stock #:
- J260139A
- VIN:
- WVWUF7AU5GW259746

2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door with DCC and Navigation
99,066 mi
$19,483
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 52,859
- Stock #:
- U17639
- VIN:
- WVWVF7AU8HW116036

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
52,859 mi
$28,997
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Red
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Manual
- Mileage:
- 65,296
- Stock #:
- 70068919
- VIN:
- WVWWF7AU1HW100264

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
65,296 mi
$28,998
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Manual
- Mileage:
- 130,187
- Stock #:
- 6696
- VIN:
- WVWUF7AUXGW056321

2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD
130,187 mi
$16,415
- Year:
- 2017
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- BLU
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Manual
- Mileage:
- 35,242
- Stock #:
- 11389
- VIN:
- WVWWF7AU6HW147872

2017 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD with DCC and Navigation
35,242 mi
$28,782
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Tornado Red
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Manual
- Mileage:
- 98,523
- Stock #:
- P33083
- VIN:
- WVWUF7AU7GW016617

2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door with DCC and Navigation
98,523 mi
$18,970
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 100,390
- Stock #:
- 232097
- VIN:
- WVWLF7AU8GW232097

2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD
100,390 mi
$16,680
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Lapiz Blue Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Manual
- Mileage:
- 73,598
- Stock #:
- 7002734
- VIN:
- WVWUF7AU5GW105344

2016 Volkswagen Golf R
4-Door AWD
73,598 mi
$21,481
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Volkswagen
- Model:
- Golf R
- Body type:
- Hatchback
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 292 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Lapiz Blue Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 26 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 6-Speed Dual Clutch
- Mileage:
- 109,078
- Stock #:
- 216615K
- VIN:
- WVWLF7AU3FW216615

-$500
2015 Volkswagen Golf R
AWD
109,078 mi
$16,912
$16,412
Overview
If you're looking for a hot hatch but want more power than the mainstream ones offer, you may be a good candidate for the Volkswagen Golf R. Brought to the U.S. back in 2012, the Golf R takes all that's good about the Golf and GTI and adds a whole bunch of insanity.
Sitting under the Golf R's hood is a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine pumping 292 horsepower to the pavement via Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. That's good for a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds. Drivers who like to row their own will rejoice to hear the Golf R now comes with a 6-speed manual transmission standard. If you're the type who prefers today's excellent automatics, the 6-speed DSG will still be available, but now for a fee.
Volkswagen is proud to point out the Golf R made it around the Nürburgring in 8 minutes and 15 seconds, putting it dead even with the famed BMW 1M. That lap time more than makes up for the Golf R's 22 mpg city/31 highway mileage rating (with the manual, the automatic clocks 23/30), which is a bit lower than you'd expect for a car of its size.
For 2016, the Golf R will have 2 available trims—the Golf R and the Golf R with DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) and Navigation. Both will come with 4 doors and Volkswagen's new MIB II infotainment system with USB connection and VW Car-Net App-Connect—a system that integrates your phone into the car's infotainment system and works with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.
Pick the raucous base model and you'll find yourself flying down the road enjoying such niceties as a 6.5-inch color touchscreen infotainment display, driving mode selection, leather seats, keyless entry with push-button start, a power driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. But thanks to 18-inch wheels, 3-mode electronic stability control, and vented brake calipers, you may be too busy enjoying the ride to really notice the luxury surrounding you. Automatic bi-Xenon headlights will keep your attention focused on the outside, while front and rear side curtain airbags, dual front airbags, 4-wheel antilock brakes, and VW's Intelligent Crash Response System protect you inside the car.
Opt for the Golf R with DCC and Navigation and you'll hop in your ride to find things like Discover Media touchscreen navigation and Volkswagen's Dynamic Chassis Control—a system that lets the driver adjust the car's damping settings. In addition to the goodies found on the base Golf R, the more premium trim boasts 19-inch wheels and a Fender sound system. New for 2016, the Golf R with DCC and Navigation is available with VW's updated Driver Assistance Package, complete with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, and park distance control.
The Golf R has made a name for itself as a fun, raucous car with more than enough utility to be a daily driver. With seating for 5 and 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats (52.7 with the seats down), the Golf R certainly fits the bill as a practical car. Where most people get scared away from the Golf R is the price tag—$35,650 is by no means a small price for a small hatchback. If you know the Golf R is for you, go for it. While it may seem like a lot of money to lay down for a small Volkswagen, when you compare it to the cars its performance numbers rival, it begins to look like a bargain.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
5.0 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Joel B
Reviewed a 2016 Volkswagen Golf R on Jun 6, 2022
Form & function meet to produce a smooth suburban GT cruiser.
David M
Reviewed a 2016 Volkswagen Golf R on Feb 25, 2022
Very sporty car. I bought the R model. It also had an APR stage one set up installed in it. Incredibly fast! 0 to 60 mph in less than four seconds, probably closer to 3.5! All wheel drive helps the car to just stick and go! All grip. Just get a good set of snow tires for the winter! The car has incredible torque throughout all six gears, especially with that APR stage one package put in it, which increases your turbo boost and other things to maximize performance. Very sporty, comfortable interior. Turns a lot of heads in the lapiz blue! Also a car that will hold it’s value better than most cars. There are not many out there, especially with the APR stage one package in it. Mine also has a carbon fiber cold air in take installed as well. Very happy with it. Going from a jeep wrangler to the Volkswagen golf R, takes a little getting used to. 4 feet off the ground to now 4 inches off the ground…… Literally! Love it!
Se-Yeong O
Reviewed a 2016 Volkswagen Golf R on Aug 6, 2023
Great fun car to drive daily. Specially when it’s in manual.
Bradley B
Reviewed a 2016 Volkswagen Golf R on Oct 14, 2023
Amazingly fun and possibly efficient car. Only if you can keep your foot from flooring the gas pedal.
2016 Volkswagen Golf R Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 4-Door with DCC and Navigation | $37,895 |
| 4-Door AWD | $35,650 |
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
2016 Volkswagen Golf R Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 2016 Volkswagen Golf R prices has changed over time.
See more price trends2016 Volkswagen Golf R Pricing Analysis
Pricing by Popular US Cities
Market Area: Nationwide
Key Insights
- Highest-Price Market: Chicago, IL leads with an average price of $21,161, indicating a premium demand in this area.
- Best Value: Washington, DC offers the lowest average price at $17,265, suggesting a more favorable buying opportunity for shoppers.
- Inventory Drives Stability: Washington, DC also has the most listings at 27, which may contribute to competitive pricing in the market.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Washington, DC | 27 | $17,265 |
| Chicago, IL | 26 | $21,161 |
| Philadelphia, PA | 25 | $17,728 |
| New York, NY | 24 | $17,947 |
| Boston, MA | 23 | $18,748 |
| Atlanta, GA | 20 | $18,498 |
| Houston, TX | 18 | $18,745 |
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- New-Car Premium: The 2026 model year shows an average price of $51,410, which is 4.0% above its starting MSRP, reflecting a strong demand for newer models.
- Depreciation Curve: The steepest depreciation is observed in the 2013 model year, with a decline of 52.5%, indicating significant value loss over time.
- Best Value Sweet Spot: The 2019 model year is priced at $28,796, representing a 28.7% depreciation, making it a potentially attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Starting MSRP | Avg Price | Avg Price vs Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $49,455 | $51,410 | +4.0% |
| 2025 | $47,100 | $48,297 | +2.5% |
| 2024 | $45,665 | $42,732 | -6.4% |
| 2023 | $44,740 | $39,978 | -10.6% |
| 2022 | $44,090 | $36,741 | -16.7% |
| 2019 | $40,395 | $28,796 | -28.7% |
| 2018 | $39,785 | $25,574 | -35.7% |
| 2017 | $35,655 | $22,045 | -38.2% |
| 2016 | $35,650 | $19,078 | -46.5% |
| 2015 | $36,595 | $18,498 | -49.5% |
| 2013 | $34,195 | $16,254 | -52.5% |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 21, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
Is the 2016 Volkswagen Golf R a good car?
Yes — 5/5 is a strong user rating for the 2016 Volkswagen Golf R, and it fits a car that combines compact-hatchback practicality with serious performance and standard all-wheel drive. The 2016 model uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 296 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and it comes only as a five-door, so you get everyday usability along with a clear performance edge over the regular Golf GTI. It also brings a well-equipped cabin with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, heated and electrically adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, bi-xenon headlights, and a rear-view camera. 32.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals, which gives you some room to shop selectively.
Is the 2016 Volkswagen Golf R reliable?
Owners rate it 5/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction. The 2016 Volkswagen Golf R is described as generally solid, with a reputation that is not flawless but still favorable for a performance car. Its appeal comes from pairing strong performance, all-weather traction, and a high level of equipment in an understated package, which can make it feel like a more complete daily driver than many rivals. For long-term ownership, you should still plan for the possibility of repair risk tied to known trouble spots, especially if the car has been driven hard or poorly maintained.
What should I look for when buying a used 2016 Volkswagen Golf R?
At 58.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important. You should start with a vehicle history report and then prioritize a pre-purchase inspection that focuses on signs of hard use, uneven wear, and any evidence of past repairs. Pay close attention to overall condition, because a performance hatch like this can hide abuse better than a more ordinary commuter car.
Is now a good time to buy a used 2016 Volkswagen Golf R?
This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop with some leverage if you’re patient and focused.
- Deal availability: 32.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Inventory: There are 99 listings available.
- Clean inventory: 58.6% of listings are accident-free.
Should I buy a 2016 Volkswagen Golf R or consider a different year?
If you're weighing the 2016 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:
Choose the 2016 if:
- 32.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- At 58.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
- Owners rate it 5/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
Consider the 2017 if:
- It adds standard safety tech, navigation, and adaptive damping for a more fully equipped package.
The bottom line: The 2016 is the better pick if you want the manual-transmission Golf R formula with strong performance and a relatively approachable market. If you’re willing to spend more for added equipment and a more feature-rich setup, the 2017 is the better secondary path; if price matters most, the 2016 gives you the core experience with more room to shop deals.
How does the 2016 Volkswagen Golf R compare to the 2016 Subaru WRX STI?
| Spec | 2016 Volkswagen Golf R | 2016 Subaru WRX STI |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $35,650 | $34,695 |
| Engine | 2.0L 292 hp I4 | 2.5L 305 hp H4 |
| Horsepower | 292 hp @ 5500 rpm | 305 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| MPG/MPGe (city) | 23 | 17 |
| MPG/MPGe (highway) | 30 | 23 |
| Listings available | 99 | 214 |
| Good & great deal share | 32.3% | 29.0% |
| Accident-free share | 58.6% | 56.1% |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 21, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
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Volkswagen Golf R Buying Guide: Cost, Reliability, and the Best Years to Buy
Discover the ultimate buying guide for purchasing a used Volkswagen Golf R, covering every generation since 2012. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a Golf enthusiast, this comprehensive overview will help you research your next pre-owned Volkswagen Golf R.

2026 Volkswagen Golf R Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
One of the dwindling number of hot hatches, the 2026 Volkswagen Golf R returns with minor tweaks but keeps what's important: 328 turbocharged horsepower and all-wheel drive.

Who Makes Volkswagen Cars?
Volkswagen is a German company that has become one of the largest car manufacturers in the world. It builds and sells a huge variety of vehicles internationally and is part of the wider Volkswagen Group, which owns other car brands including Audi, Bentley and Porsche.