The eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI is now available to order. Always offering a stimulating drive, the new GTI reaches 62 mph from a standstill in a sprightly 6.2 seconds in its quickest, DSG-equipped form. With 242bhp (245PS) and 370Nm of lovely torque on tap from the 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, this motoring legend will continue on to a 155mph top speed regardless of the transmission used.
Same Icon, New Styling & Technology
The VW Golf GTI brings with it a comprehensive standard equipment package, including styling upgrades, new convenience features and the latest driver assistance systems, naturally. At the front, the hatchback gets an illuminated grille strip, as well as LED fog lights, set in the GTI’s distinctive honeycomb design, with LED matrix headlights completing the lighting set-up. A set of 18” alloy ‘Richmond’ style wheels gives the GTI a purposeful look from the side view.
At the rear, a pair of chrome-plated tailpipes sit beneath a uniquely styled GTI bumper – the GTI receives bespoke front and rear bumpers, setting it apart from the regular version, as part of the whole assertive, sporting look. A roof spoiler also marks out the back, as well as smoked LED tail lights with dynamic turn signals.
The Same But Better Inside
On the inside, the Golf GTI’s sports seats are clad in a new iteration of the distinctive and traditional Jacara check cloth, while the sports steering wheel is leather-wrapped and heated, with paddle shifters for the DSG-equipped automatic variant. The gear-shift knob is finished in aluminium, while ‘Black Metal Chrome’ dash and door panels bring a sleek look to the interior. A keyless entry and start/stop system, three-Zone climate control and electrically heated, adjustable and foldable door mirrors with built-in puddle lights all also feature as standard.
The car’s driver assistance systems include lane change assist and Travel Assist, Side Assist (two radar systems at the rear monitor the areas behind the car and in the blind spots at the sides) and Emergency Assist. A new front-locking differential and Vehicle Dynamics Management system are also included, delivering, say the company, an even sharper and more agile driving experience, along with the unrivalled long-distance comfort that Volkswagen customers expect, even in a sporting motor.
The new Vehicle Dynamics Management function controls all electromechanically-adjustable running systems such as the XDS electronic differential, alongside the new locking differential and optional adaptive dampers. The result is a significantly enhanced balance between maximum driving dynamics and the highest levels of comfort.
What About The Drive?
More than ever before the Volkswagen Golf GTI offers a very high standard of broad-based appeal. Thanks to the electronic differential the car corners with total control, possibly better than ever before. The brand have thankfully preserved the superb high-speed stability, delivering a planted and comfortable ride but without losing any of the spirited performance we have come to expect from this, probably the best affordable hot hatch in the world.
UK prices start at around £34,000 for the six-speed manual gearbox model, and £35,000 with the quick-shifting seven-speed DSG auto. Get in touch with us here at MHH International to find out more.
