Volkswagen introduced the R lineup in the Golf family in 2013, but the car's success determined the automaker to offer it also as a station wagon. Thus, owners could easily do school runs, shopping days, and track days.

When Volkswagen decided to go to another level with its famous hatchback, the Variant was considered to receive the same drivetrain as the rest of the Golf R range. And, just like its siblings, this version got an aggressive front fascia with a beefier front bumper that sported a trapezoidal lower grille and a pair of big, functional side scoops. From its profile, the Variant was identical to the five-door version up to the B-post. There were different rear doors and a third side window between the C- and the D-pillars. At the back, the slightly tilted forward tailgate sported a roof spoiler at the top. Finally, to further enhance the car's look, the automaker installed a quad exhaust system under the rear bumper, flanking a diffuser.

Inside, the high-bolstered front seats' backrests received the "R" badge embroidered in the upholstery. On the dashboard, the automaker installed an instrument cluster with two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer, flanking a small...