GTI fans rejoice! Whilst we wait patiently for VGM to start selling the Mk7 Golf TSI locally (and this should be relatively soon), we’ve already been waiting for Volkswagen to let loose more details about the Mk7 Golf GTI. Well, that time is now because Volkswagen has said it will introduce the Mk7 Golf GTI at the Geneva International Motor Show (March 7-17th 2013). There’s a twist this time, because the new GTI will be offered in two flavours: a standard 220PS or a GTI Performance with 230PS and a front axle differential lock.
The new GTI is powered by a turbocharged petrol direct-injection engine (TSI) with 162 kW / 220 PS. For the first time in the history of the sports car icon, a special GTI Performance will be offered. In this version, the engine’s maximum power is boosted to 169 kW / 230 PS. Both GTI versions develop a maximum torque of 350 Nm; a very significant hike over its Mk6 GTI’s 280Nm, rivaling the Mk6 R’s torque! The standard GTI accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 246km/h. The GTI Performance reaches a top speed of 250 km/h and just 6.4 seconds for the sprint to 100km/h.
Both GTI versions are equipped with a Stop-Start system, they fulfill the EU-6 emissions standard that takes effect in 2014 and – with a 6-speed gearbox – they attain the same low DIN fuel consumption value of 6.0 litre/100 km (CO2: 139 g/km). This means that the Golf GTI offers an 18% improvement in fuel economy compared to the previous model. With the optional 6-speed DSG, the two GTI cars consume 6.4 and 6.5 litre/100 respectively (equivalent to 148 and 150 g/km CO2).
The sporty character of the Golf GTI is reflected in its traditional red- painted brake calipers, two chrome tailpipes and a sport suspension. The exterior of the compact sports car also scores with 17-inch “Brooklyn” GTI wheels and 225/45 size tyres, special side sills, a diffuser and smoked LED rear lights (including LED license plate illumination). While I’ve got to admit the press images look really good, I just can’t bring myself to agree with the new wheel design. Yes, I’m quite a fan of the current ‘telephone’ style Detroit/Denvers that come equipped with the current GTIs on sale in Malaysia.
Visual highlights in the interior are top sport seats in tartan pattern (“Clark”), a black roof-liner and red ambience lighting. The cars also offers sporty GTI features such as a sport steering wheel, GTI gear shift grip and instrument cluster, special trim strips and stainless steel pedals and foot support. Volkswagen assures an optimal mix of comfort and safety in the Golf GTI. Customers can choose from the standard body colours “Tornado Red”, “Black” and “Pure White”. In Germany, advance ordering for the new Golf GTI begins on the 5th of March, and prices start at 28,350 Euros. There are no indicative prices yet for Malaysia, and we have a gut feeling that only one variant will be brought in: GTI Performance. But I guess we’ll find out in several months time!
Overview:
Market launch in Europe: Initial markets starting May 2013.
Debut of first generation Golf GTI: 1976.
Engine: Four-cylinder TSI (turbocharged direct petrol injection); front transverse engine; displacement 1,984 cc; bore/stroke 82.5/92.8 mm; compression ratio 9.8:1.
Power: 162 kW / 220 PS from 4,500 to 6,200 rpm.
Torque: 350 Nm from 1,500 to 4,400 rpm.
Gearboxes / drive type: Manual 6-speed gearbox; automatic 6-speed DSG; front-wheel drive.
Brakes: Disc brakes front and rear, front 312 x 25 mm, ventilated; rear 300 x 12 mm.
Fuel consumption / CO2 emissions (manual): 6.0 l/100 km; 139 g/km CO2.
Driving performance (manual): 0-100 km/h in 6.5 s; V/max 246 km/h.
Unladen weight: 1,351 kg (base version including driver [68 kg], luggage [7 kg] and 90 % filled fuel tank; calculated as per RL 92/21/EEC.
Performance:
Power: 169 kW / 230 PS from 4,700 to 6,200 rpm.
Torque: 350 Nm from 1,500 to 4,600 rpm; front axle differential lock (VAQ).
Brakes: Disc brakes front and rear, front 340 x 30 mm, ventilated; rear 310 x 22 mm, ventilated.
Driving performance (manual): 0-100 km/h in 6.4 s; V/max 250 km/h.
(* estimated values)
