Agile drive, the running gear of dreams, unmistakable design, perfect ergonomics, unadulterated driving pleasure – that’s the DNA of a true sports car which at Volkswagen is represented by three letters: GTI.
The eighth generation of the sporty Golf derivative is now on the way and is more digital, networked, more sharply designed and more active in motion than ever before. Its turbocharged engine generates 245PS and its new Vehicle Dynamics Manager intelligently controls the electromechanical running gear systems. The Golf GTI combines maximum dynamism with maximum comfort.
Perfect front-wheel drive
Karsten Schebsdat, Volkswagen Head of Driving Dynamics, Steering and Control Systems, explains: “Thanks to the combination of new running gear set-up plus front-axle locking differential and Vehicle Dynamics Manager we were able to elevate the Golf GTI’s outstanding overall performance.”
Unmistakable GTI: now in the eighth generation
GTI drivers can select their very own set-up using the standard driving profile selection feature and the optional adaptive dynamic chassis control (DCC) running gear. The sharper driving dynamics guarantee an even more accurate driving experience: understeer, a typical characteristic of front-wheel drive vehicles whereby the vehicle’s front wheels tend to lose grip through quick corners, has in effect, been eliminated.
Design combines superior, sporty character and functionality
Standard LED headlights have been arranged low down. These are optionally available as IQ.LIGHT – LED matrix headlights. They form a striking crossbar in conjunction with the radiator grille. The signature, red GTI line towards the top of the bonnet stretches across the front section. For the very first time, the radiator grille can be illuminated by a slim LED strip that extends into the headlight modules’ LED daytime running lights on the left and right. From the side, standard Richmond 17-inch alloy wheels match the vehicle’s image. At the rear, a GTI roof spoiler that extends towards the rear boosts the downforce at the rear axle. In keeping with the GTI tradition, the new model’s exhaust system has one round tailpipe each on the left and the right.
Digital interior systems meet classic GTI tartan
The Golf GTI no longer features an ignition lock, which has been replaced by an engine start/stop button as standard. Once the doors have been opened, the button pulses red until the GTI engine is started. GTI insignia also include the new interpretation of the tartan pattern (Scalepaper) on the sports seats, which are also a new development.
Image: Golf GTI – the vehicle pictured is a near-production concept car.