Audi RS 3’s Five-Cylinder Engine Could Land in Volkswagen Golf R, Report Claims

For those who think the Volkswagen Golf R could still offer more power despite output being bumped to 328 horsepower for 2025, or Audi fans who regret that the Canadian-spec RS 3 is only available in four-door sedan configuration, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon.

According to a report by British publication Autocar, Volkswagen's high-performance hatchback will receive the signature 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine from the RS 3 in 2027 for a special model marking the 25th anniversary of the first Golf R.

• Also: 2025 Audi RS 3: Finally Back and Better Than Ever
• Also: 2025 Volkswagen Golf R: A New Era Begins

The unique-sounding engine currently generates 394 horsepower in Audi's subcompact sedan. Its 369 lb-ft of torque also significantly exceed the Golf R’s 310 lb-ft. The transplant would reduce the 0-100 km/h acceleration time from approximately 4.6 to 3.8 seconds.

But wasn't Audi supposed to abandon its five-cylinder engine due to the new, more stringent Euro 7 emissions standard that’s due to come into effect at the end of November 2026? Assuming the report is accurate, it would seem that the company has finally decided to make upgrades to ensure Euro 7 compliance.

Autocar claims that engineers will employ reprogrammed injection, a new particulate filter, more intense NOx sensors, as well as other emission control solutions. The inevitable weight gain will require changes to the suspension and brakes, the media outlet also reports.

Furthermore, this specially juiced-up Golf R is likely to benefit from enlarged air intakes, new wheels and aerodynamic components, more aggressive tires and a recalibrated dual-clutch gearbox, not to mention the awesome torque-splitting rear differential from the RS 3, which allows all rear-axle torque to be sent to either the left or right wheel.

The big question is: if such a model does indeed see the light of day, will we get it in North America? Nothing is less certain. After all, Volkswagen doesn't always give us access to its sportier cars, like the Clubsports. In any case, a debut could take place in 2026, according to Autocar, so more details will come to us then.