After what seems like an f-word eternity, Volkswagen will be unveiling the GTI version of its seventh generation Golf in Geneva.
Visually the GTI sits on lower sports suspension and wears bi-xenon headlights with LED DRLs, LED tail-lights, honeycomb grille sections with red trim, 17-inch ‘Brooklyn’ GTI alloys with 225/45 size tyres, red brake calipers, a larger roof spoiler, diffuser and chrome twin tailpipes.
Inside, Volkswagen has retained that check trim reminiscent of the original 1970s upholstery, along with special trim strips, stainless steel pedals, a GTI gear shift grip and GTI instrument cluster.
Power comes from the company’s 2.0 TSI engine, developing 162 kW (220 hp) or 169 kW (230 hp) when specified with the new performance package, while torque rises to 350 Nm – 70 Nm up on the outgoing model. The extra power combined with the car’s lighter construction results in a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds and a 246 km/h top speed (performance package: 6.4s and 250 km/h).
Fuel consumption is also improved, with the 2013 GTI needing just 6.0 litres every 100 kilometres – an 18 percent improvement over its predecessor. If the 6-speed DSG transmission is chosen over the standard 6-speed manual, consumption rises to 6.4l/100 km (pp: 6.5l/100 km)
Advance orders begin in Germany on March 5, with prices starting at €28,350.
[Source: Volkswagen]