Performance car fans can now go to their local Volkswagen Retailer and order the new Golf GTI in either manual or DSG formats.
Alongside the eighth-generation of the iconic GTI hot hatch, the Golf’s potent and ultra-low emission GTE variant can now be ordered. But if your tastes are more frugal, the 1.0-litre eTSI mild-hybrid drivetrain is also introduced to the line-up.
The new Golf GTI
The eighth-generation Golf GTI comes with a six-speed manual gearbox or a quick-shifting seven-speed DSG. The model sprints from 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds in its quicker, DSG-equipped form, with 245PS and 370Nm on tap from its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The model will continue on to a 155mph top speed with either transmission.
The new Golf GTI has comprehensive standard equipment, including styling upgrades, new convenience features and the latest driver assistance systems. At the front, the GTI gets an illuminated grille strip, LED fog lights and IQ.Light LED matrix headlights complete the look. A set of 18-inch ‘Richmond’ alloy wheels add finesse
At the rear, a pair of chrome-plated tailpipes sits beneath the bespoke GTI bumper, while a roof spoiler, smoked LED tail-lights and dynamic turn signals give additional allure.
The car’s driver assistance systems include Lane Change Assist and Travel Assist with Side Assist and Emergency Assist. A new front locking differential and Vehicle Dynamics Manager system deliver an even sharper and agile driving experience.
The new Golf GTE
The plug-in hybrid GTE has the same 245PS power output as its GTI stablemate. The GTE supplements a 150PS, 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a 110PS electric motor and 13kWh battery pack, capable of powering the car on electric power alone for up to 32 miles.
With its 245PS, 400Nm combination, the GTE reaches a top speed of 140mph, after a sprint from 0-62mph is dispatched in 6.7 seconds. The Golf GTE is efficient, too, achieving 176.6mpg on the combined cycle, and 36g/km of CO2 emissions (WLTP). The GTE features a specially adapted six-speed DSG transmission.
The 1.0 eTSI mild hybrid
The Golf 8 1.0-litre eTSI 110 PS mild-hybrid comes in the Golf Life trim, boasts fuel economy of 54.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 118 g/km, making it the most frugal petrol-only option in the new Golf range. The Golf eTSI reaches 62 mph from a standstill in 10.2 seconds, and has a top speed of 126mph. The mild hybrid system comprises a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, 48-volt lithium-ion battery and 48-volt belt starter generator.
Golf Life trim includes LED headlights and turn signals with automatic headlight activation, LED daytime running light and dynamic headlight range control. There’s also an array of driver assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist and Front Assist.