VS
At a Glance
Power
255hp @ 4700
328hp @ 5600
Torque
295lb-ft @ 1600
295lb-ft @ 2000
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
2.0 L/121cc
Choosing between the BMW 4 Series and the Volkswagen Golf R is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW 4 Series delivers 255hp @ 4700 while the Volkswagen Golf R produces 328hp @ 5600. Pricing starts at $51,200 for the 4 Series and $49,455 for the Golf R. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
255hp @ 4700
328hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
295lb-ft @ 1600
295lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
2.0 L/121cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
7
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
27mpg
22mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
34mpg
31mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.6gal
14.5gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
187.9in
168.9in
Width (in)
72.9in
70.4in
Height (in)
54.8in
57.7in
Wheelbase (in)
112.2in
103.5in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3708lbs
3461lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Volkswagen Golf R
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Golf R
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
BMW 4 Series
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Volkswagen Golf R
Lower starting price ($49,455)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the 4 Series or Golf R?
The 4 Series produces 255hp @ 4700 and 295lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Golf R delivers 328hp @ 5600 and 295lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the 4 Series and Golf R?
The 4 Series starts from $51,200 and the Golf R from $49,455. The Golf R is cheaper by $1,745 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the 4 Series or the Golf R?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider