VW GOLF R 8.5 - CAN FOUR WHEEL DRIVE BE FUN AND NOT BORING?

EV Channels Review

The reviewer explores the capabilities of Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, contrasting its application in the Golf R (internal combustion engine) and the ID.7 GTX (electric). Driving on a frozen Swedish lake with studded tires, the Golf R, boasting nearly 330 horsepower, demonstrated impressive agility and fun, particularly with its torque-vectoring capabilities allowing for controlled drifts and playful handling. The reviewer found it easier to balance and manage slides compared to rear-wheel-drive setups, praising its ability to use front-end grip for cornering. In contrast, the ID.7 GTX, while also featuring 4Motion, proved more challenging. Its dual-motor electric setup, combined with less aggressive tires and a larger size, made it more difficult to provoke and control slides, requiring significant patience and precise inputs. The lack of audible cues in the EV also added to the difficulty. Ultimately, the Golf R's 4Motion system was highlighted for its ability to deliver both confidence and driving enjoyment, while the ID.7's system showcased the distinct challenges and characteristics of applying AWD to an electric platform.