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Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI
September 27, 2012
Volkswagen’s all-new Golf is making its motor show debut this week in Paris, with the seventh-generation displaying a new look plus new technology, engines, safety and infotainment features.Without GTI though the range wouldn’t be complete, so here is the concept they unveiled at Paris.
The new Golf GTI, which is set to go on sale mid 2013 is powered by an advanced engine from the existing EA888 series: a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine with 161kW (6kW more than the current Golf GTI).For the first time in the car’s history, the GTI will also be available, direct from the factory, with a ‘performance pack’, which will boost the car’s maximum power to 169kW.
In the entry-level car, maximum torque has been increased by 70Nm to 350Nm – the same as the previous Golf R – which gives flexibility and in-gear acceleration. The GTI concept with 161kW has a 0 to 100kph time of 6.6secs and a top speed of 245kph; add the performance pack and maximum power rises to 169kW, top speed to 250kph, and the sprint time falls to 6.5secs.
Adding the performance pack also adds improvements to the handling, front brake disc diameters are increased, plus a front axle differential lock which reduces power-related understeer.
Apparently both versions maintain the same fuel economy and emissions. Both are equipped with a standard Stop/Start system and a six-speed manual gearbox, the GTI is set to return 6.0l/100km (an 18 per cent improvement over the Mk VI), with carbon dioxide emissions of 140g/km.A six-speed DSG gearbox is available as an option for both power levels.
Both GTI models also benefit as standard from a variable ratio steering system, which in essence, allows the driver to turn the car through a desired radius with smaller movements of the steering wheel. While conventional steering systems work with a fixed ratio, the new Golf GTI operates with a variable steering ratio, which reduces steering input when manoeuvring and parking. On twisting country roads, the driver experiences a benefit in dynamics due to the more direct layout.
The new Golf GTI concept has numerous external and internal styling features, including red brake calipers, honeycomb grille with double red stripe detail, smoked LED rear lights and LED licence plate illumination and chrome 80mm diameter tailpipes.Inside, tartan sports seats, a flat bottomed steering wheel, GTI golf ball gear knob and GTI-specific red ambience lighting hark back to cars of previous generations.
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