Wolfsburg, Germany - This is it, folks. The eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI has been fully revealed, along with its two cousins, the GTD and the plug-in-hybrid GTE.
For now though, Volkswagen is only mentioning the basic version of GTI, which in this case produces 180kW and 370Nm, up 11kW and 20Nm on the current model. A more potent version of the GTI is expected to be announced at a later stage, which will offer 221kW, if an allegedly leaked dealer document is to be believed.
The GTI is powered by a revised version of the familiar EA888 2-litre turbopetrol engine and power goes to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The Golf GTD gets an even bigger output hike than its petrol-powered counterpart. Its 2-litre turbodiesel engine now produces 147kW and 400Nm, up from 130kW and 350Nm, and it’s paired with the seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard. The revised motor has cleaned up its act on the emissions front too, with new twin dosing SCR catalytic converters that feature double AdBlue injection - this is said to significantly reduce NOx emissions.
Volkswagen has also announced the new GTE plug-in hybrid, which pairs an electric motor to a 1.4-litre turbopetrol engine for system outputs of 180kW and 400Nm. Furthermore, the new GTE can cover larger distances between charges, with VW quoting an all-electric range of 60km.
For now though, we can’t tell you how fast the new GTI, GTD and GTE hatchbacks are as Volkswagen has not mentioned any performance times as yet.
The GTI, GTE and GTD also gain a new driving dynamics system called the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, which controls both the XDS function and the lateral dynamics components of the DCC adaptive dampers, when optionally fitted.
The three cars have a similar styling package that includes a large lower air intake in a honeycomb pattern, and buyers can opt for foglights in an X-shaped pattern. Another unique design feature is the illuminated upper grille strip. The performance hatchbacks are also set apart by wider side sills and a larger rear diffuser. The GTI rolls on unique 17-inch Richmond alloy wheels, but buyers can opt for 18-inch and 19-inch rims.
On the inside the GTI, GTD and GTE are set apart by redesigned sports seats with integrated headrests. Like the humbler Golf 8 models, the cockpit has been fully digitised with a 26cm digital instrument cluster and new 25.4cm central infotainment screen, whose colours and graphics are unique to each model. A wide range of connected services are also part of the deal here as is a new mood lighting system with 30 available colours.
The new Golf GTI is set to launch in South Africa later this year, ahead of the regular Golf 8 models.
