The updated 2017 Volkswagen Golf '7.5' range has been joined this week by the anticipated 2017 Golf R flagship models, not revealed with the wider range in November.

As expected, the R hatches (which still includes a three-door option in Europe) and wagon pick up the same styling tweaks gifted to the rest of the line-up, including new bumpers and updated LED lighting at both ends.

Specific mechanical and chassis changes, if any, have not been detailed, although Volkswagen has confirmed a moderate power boost for the R range.

For 2017, the Golf R's existing 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine will offer 228kW of power and 400Nm of torque, up from the 221kW and 380Nm previously offered to buyers in the European markets.

In Australia, the current R offers 206kW (and a matching 380Nm), thanks to our status as a 'hot weather' destination.