Volkswagen has released new pictures and a promo video of the 2014 Golf R, which will make its public debut next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The Golf R is the fastest Golf ever, using a 296bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 380 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the road via the latest fifth-generation Haldex 4MOTION four-wheel drive system, enabling it to hit 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds when fitted with the optional six-speed DSG gearbox. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

Other highlights include specially tuned springs and dampers. The ride height is 20 mm lower than that of the standard Golf and 5 mm lower than that of the GTI.

Exterior boasts new front bumper design with large air intakes, modified grille with ‘R’ logo, new daytime running lights, body-colour sills, 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/40 tyres, black-painted brake calipers with ‘R’ logos, smoked LED tail lights, an ‘R’ diffuser and two chrome-tipped exhaust pipes at either side.