VW Golf R Factory Mistake Creates Unique Mystery

author: FutureCar Staff    

Most new cars these days come with a limited range of colors from the factory. Typically, you'll find a selection of blacks, whites, and greys, with the occasional red or blue. However, every now and then, a car manages to slip through the cracks and sport a color that was not officially offered. This was the case with a 2017 Volkswagen Golf R in Carbon Steel Grey Metallic.

According to a listing on Bring a Trailer, this particular Golf R gained legendary status when it arrived at the dealership in November 2016. The color it was painted in, Carbon Steel Grey Metallic, was never officially available on this model from the factory. Its presence caused quite a stir when it was put up for sale by Lindsey Volkswagen in Dulles, Virginia.

The current owner of the car became curious about its unique color and reached out to Volkswagen for answers. It turns out that Carbon Steel Grey Metallic was originally offered on the Mk 6 and Mk 7 Golf GTI models, but not on the Golf R. Volkswagen representatives suggested that the four-digit paint code may have been entered incorrectly or that the wrong paint was selected due to a system error. The car should have been painted in Limestone Grey instead.

Despite the error, the car passed through the production line without any issues. Quality inspection did not raise any red flags, as inspectors typically do not look for cars painted in colors outside their designated options. The car's uncommon color sparked a frenzy, with over 100 interested buyers and numerous Facebook comments expressing excitement over this factory misprint.

Megan Closset, the product manager of the Golf GTI and Golf R in America at the time, noticed the overwhelming community reaction to the unique Golf R. This prompted her to advocate for the introduction of the Spektrum program in the U.S. market. As a result, the Golf R now offers 40 additional paint options, including vibrant teals, ocean blues, striking oranges, and captivating greens.

Volkswagen of America recognized the significance of this accidental production and confirmed that the Carbon Steel Grey Metallic Golf R was the only one of its kind. The company issued a special letter of authenticity to the owner, acknowledging its one-of-one status and its role in bringing the expanded color options to the U.S. market.

Although the current owner has enjoyed the car, they have decided to sell it. The unique Golf R is currently listed for sale on Bring a Trailer, with bidding already at over $15,000 and five days remaining on the auction. Documents confirm the car's special status as a one-off factory error.

If you're looking for a Golf R in a fun color, Volkswagen now offers a wide selection for an additional cost of $2,500. However, Carbon Steel Grey Metallic is no longer available from Volkswagen. If you still desire this color, you can find it at Porsche, where it continues to be offered as a Paint to Sample option.

FutureCar Staff