Volkswagen are busy buffing up the paintwork on the seventh Golf GTI ready for its Geneva unveiling next week but in the spirit of pre-show leaks they have decided to let slip the performance figures of their latest hot hatch.
Volkswagen Golf GTI (2013)
Is It Faster?
Yes, it’s more powerful and more torquey than the car it replaces. The all-important statistics are 220PS (217bhp) and 350Nm (258 lb/ft) from the new 2.0 turbocharged TSI, translating into 6.5 seconds for the 62mph sprint and a top speed of 152mph.
At the same time, the Golf GTI is cleaner than ever. Volkswagen are quoting an 18 percent improvement in fuel economy with an official combined figure of 47.0 mpg from the 6-speed manual transmission and 44.1mpg for the six-speed automatic DSG. That works out at 139g/km and 148 g/km, dropping the manual Golf GTI down into Band E and the DSG into Band F.
A new feature on the GTI is standard Stop/Start technology and the engine already meets the upcoming EU6 emissions regulations due to take effect in 2014.
UK GTIs get 18-inch wheels (19-inch Santiagos pictured) and xenon headlights as standard
What’s Special About This GTI?
The standard GTI already sounds good enough but what if I told you there’s a second model that’s even quicker? Yes, there’s an optional GTI Performance Pack that increases power to 230PS (torque stays the same at 350Nm). The extra power drops the 62mph dash to 6.4 seconds and raises the top speed to 155mph.
An increase of 10PS doesn’t sound like much but with that extra power comes bigger brake discs. The fronts are increased from 312x25mm to 340x30mm while the rears increase from 300x12mm to 310x22mm.with vented disc rotors.
More importantly, a proper mechanical limited-slip differential will be fitted to the front axle. Could this LSD-equipped GTI be capable of taking the fight to the Renaultsport boys and their Cup chassis?
Officially the manual version of the GTI Performance has the same economy and emissions as the standard GTI but the DSG-equipped version drops slightly to 43.5mpg and 149 g/km.
Flat-bottomed steering wheel and tartan seats are familiar features
What Do I Get For My Cash?
As with earlier GTI’s, the new model is slightly understated in its appearance. 18-inch ‘Austin’ wheels are standard in the UK (European buyers only get 17s as standard) and you also get red brake callipers, a pair of chromed tailpipes, side sill extensions, a rear diffuser and slightly tinted rear lights.
Another bonus for UK buyers are bi-xenon headlights fitted as standard and they include LED daytime running lights. How much will we have to pay? Prices start at £25,845 for a three door manual GTI or £26,500 for the five-door. DSG will set you back an extra £1,415 and the GTI Performance option will add another £1,000. UK order books open on March 26th.
Volkswagen Golf GTI (2013)
2013 Volkswagen Golf GTI Specifications
| GTI | GTI Performance | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manual | DSG | Manual | DSG | |
| Engine: | 1,984cc 4-cylinder turbocharged direct petrol injection | |||
| Power: | 220PS (4,500-6,300 rpm) | 230PS (4,700-6,200 rpm) | ||
| Torque: | 350Nm (258 lbs ft) from 1,500-4,400rpm | 350Nm (258 lbs ft) from 1,500-4,600rpm | ||
| 0-62mph: | 6.5s | 6.5s | 6.4s | 6.4s |
| Top Speed: | 152mph | 152mph | 155mph | 155mph |
| Prices (3dr): | £25,845 | £27,260 | £26,845 | £28,260 |
