Giannis
Staff member
The Golf GTI was always and undeniably the most iconic hot hatch of all times. It first debuted in the 70's and until today, it's the best all-around hot-hatch one can buy. We are in 2013 now, and just a few days before the Geneva Motor Show, VW unveiled the 7th generation. This time, the GTI is available in two trims, the standard one with 220hp and as GTI Performance with 230hp and a front axle locking differential. Both versions develop 350Nm of torque and come with a 6 speed gearbox, either manual or the optional DSG.
Compared to the 6th generation, the differences are expected to be noticeable, as the 7th generation is based on the new MQB platform. All we know so far, though, is that the 7th GTI is 18% more fuel efficient compared to its predecessor. Finally, compared to a normal Golf, the visual changes are, apart from the sport suspension, the red brake calipers and the chromed tailpipes, the 17" rims, the rear diffuser and the smoked taillights.
VW's press release and photo gallery can be found after the jump.
Source: [Volkswagen]
Wolfsburg, 27 February 2013 - At the Volkswagen company, the letters “GTI” have stood for superior dynamic performance for over three decades now. In the tradition of previous models by the same name, Volkswagen is introducing the latest version of the Golf GTI at the Geneva International Motor Show. For the first time, the legendary compact sports car is available at two power levels: the standard 220 PS or the GTI Performance with 230 PS and 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. The standard GTI accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 246 km/h. The GTI Performance reaches a top speed of 250 km/h and just 6.4 seconds for the sprint to 100 km/h.
Both GTI versions are equipped with a Stop-Start system, they fulfil 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 l/100 km (CO2: 139 g/km). This means that the Golf GTI offers an 18 per cent 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 l/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 callipers, 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 licence plate illumination).
Visual highlights in the interior are top sport seats in tartan pattern (“Clark”), a black roofliner 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.
