Volkswagen Golf GTI Concept (2012)

The concept of the next Golf GTI is powered by a further advanced engine from the EA888 series – a two-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine with 162 kW / 220 PS. A new option: for the first time in the iconic sports car’s history, a performance pack will be available as a factory-installed option. In this version, the engine’s maximum power is boosted to 169 kW / 230 PS. Both GTI versions are equipped with a Stop/Start system as standard, they fulfil the EU-6 emissions standard that takes effect in 2014 and – with a 6-speed manual gearbox – they attain the same low DIN fuel consumption of 6.0 l/100 km (CO2: 140 g/km). Compared to the previous model (155 kW / 210 PS), the combined fuel consumption of the new Golf GTI is therefore reduced by 1.3 litres per 100 km or 18 per cent. A 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) is available as an option for both power levels.

The performance pack not only offers a plus in power, but also a plus in handling: instead of 16-inch brakes, the GTI is equipped with 17-inch brakes here (with GTI badges on the callipers) and a front axle differential lock (VAQ) that is also being offered for the first time in this form.

Like all six Golf GTI generations before it, the seventh generation concept car being shown in Paris is distinguished from other Golf models by numerous additional equipment features and classic GTI insignia. On the exterior, these include the red painted brake callipers, a GTI-typical honeycomb structure for the air inlet screens, smoked LED rear lights including LED licence plate lighting as well as chrome 80 mm diameter tailpipes on the left and right. Some features have been characteristic since the days of the first Volkswagen Golf GTI, for example the production colours Red (“Tornado Red”) and “Black” and an optional white exterior (“Pure White” as special colour). Volkswagen has further developed the classic GTI wheels “Denver”, “Detroit” and “Glendale” whose styling characteristics from the previous model have flowed into the design of the new machine-polished 17-inch “Brooklyn” alloy wheels; they have a lighter visual look and are in fact lighter in weight. The wheels are fitted with 225/45 size tyres. 18-inch wheels will also be available on the GTI as an option.