The new Golf GTI is powered by a 180 kW (245 PS) 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine (TSI). The maximum torque is 370 Nm. The GTI engine (EA888 evo4) in this output level had been reserved for the predecessor Golf GTI Performancewhich was available as an alternative to the basic model (169 kW/230 PS) at a surcharge. Now the 245 PS engine is part of the standard range. The TSI unit has been coupled with a manual 6-speed gearbox - a combination that is a firm favourite with sports car purists. An extremely quick-shifting 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) is available as an optional alternative. The electronically limited top speed is 250 km/h in both cases (full power and consumption values will follow homologation approval).
Compared with the predecessor the new Golf GTI has become flatter, more elongated and dynamic. Designers created each body part from scratch and worked with aerodynamicists to perfectly hone the vehicle in the wind tunnel. The drag coefficient (Cd) of the basic model dropped from 0.3 to 0.275. The aerodynamics have also been improved by a range of individual measures. These include Cd-optimised exterior mirrors, aerodynamic corners and a bespoke GTI roof spoiler, extensive underbody panelling as well as aerodynamically optimised features in the wheel housing liners (displacement elements at front, spoiler at rear). The new sports car also features a range of traditional and completely new exterior GTI features. The red strip in the radiator grille is imperative for a GTI. This strip originates from the first GTI generation in which it completely framed the plastic radiator grille. Today this red strip stretches across the vehicle’s entire front above the radiator grille and merges with the wings. For the first time the red GTI strip is refined by a parallel LED crossbar at the bottom. In each case, this LED crossbar stretches from the outside of the standard LED headlights to the VW badge arranged in the centre of the radiator grille. This gives the Golf GTI a new and unmistakeable light signature. The bottom section of the front panel also features GTI-specific design with the typical, black, honeycomb air intake. LED fog lights designed in a brand new X formation are available as an optional extra. Other exterior GTI characteristics include the front spoiler, side sills and rear diffuser frame, forming an all-round design unit.
Interior highlights include new sports seats with integrated head restraints that are reminiscent of the first Golf GTI thanks to their special ergonomics, red stitching and a tartan Scalepaper style fabric on the seat and backrest areas. It goes without saying that the new multifunction sports steering wheel has been individually designed with a red appliqué and the GTI badge. Another typical Golf GTI feature is the honeycomb pattern on the dash panel and door trim. The new Engine Start/Stop button comes as standard in the Golf GTI. Once the doors have been opened, it pulses red until the engine has been started. UX designers have also developed a new GTI graphic for the standard Digital Cockpit. It can be opened using the new View button on the steering wheel. It is made up of a combination of three round instruments: the rev counter with GTI logo in the centre surrounded by one round instrument each on the left and right. These can be individually assigned, for instance to show the engine’s boost pressure or the current power output.
Every new Golf is fitted with assist systems such as the Lane Assist lane keeping system, Autonomous Emergency Braking Front Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Monitoring, XDS electronic differential lock and also Car2X (local communication with other vehicles and the traffic infrastructure). In the interior the Digital Cockpit and standard 8.25-inch Composition infotainment system have been digitalised and integrated into a network, providing We Connect and We Connect Plus online services and functions. Other standard features include a multifunction steering wheel, single-zone automatic climate control, the Press & Drive comfort start system, a Bluetooth provision for mobile telephone, LED headlights, LED tail light clusters, LED daytime running lights, LED reading lights and two USB-C ports. This range of equipment has been extended significantly for the GTI.
On the exterior, the equipment outlined here is supplemented by 17-inch alloy wheels, a customised front section, a grooved rear diffuser, a standalone roof spoiler, the corresponding model logos, individual tailpipes, red brake calipers and sill extensions. The functions include a sports running gear (lowered by 15 mm), a front-axle locking differential, sound actuator and the Keyless Access locking and starting system. All pedals are made of stainless steel. Pre-sales of the new Golf GTI will start this summer.