9 February 2011
New car report: Grand Touring Icon
Although its performance and displacement data might suggest an evolution of the fifth generation Golf GTI engine, the powerplant at the business end of the Golf VI GTI is in fact all new.
Volkswagen's latest incarnation of the iconic hot hatch ups the power from 147kW to 155kW and torque produced by the new 1984cc TSI turbo charged engine is rated at 280Nm from just 1700rpm.
Like every other GTI since Volkswagen invented the hot hatch segment back in '76, the Golf VI GTI delivers plenty of go, completing the run to our open road speed limit from standstill in just 6.9 seconds when mated to the six speed DSG gearbox, which is the transmission of choice for New Zealand spec cars. Shift paddles are part of the standard GTI setup.
Never been one to shy away from the twisty stuff, the new GTI takes handling and chassis dynamics to new levels.
The entire suspension architecture has been re-designed, and for the first time in a Volkswagen the XDS electronic transverse differential lock is being used.
XDS is a functional extension of the electronic limited slip differential (EDL) integrated into the ESP stability system. When pushed hard into tight turns, XDS signals for the ESP system to apply braking pressure to the inside wheel if there is any hint of loss of traction, providing more precise and neutral turn-in, compensating for understeer which is inherent in front wheel drive cars.
So, even in standard form the GTI is sure footed and predictable. It's quick and nimble with a taut chassis. The enthusiastic driver is rewarded with plenty of feedback through the leather clad sport steering wheel and seat of the pants handling and performance impress.
And for the really aggressive driver prepared to shell out an extra $1,750, Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) is available as an option. DCC allows the driver to choose the desired suspension characteristic. Besides the Normal program, DCC also offers Sport and Comfort modes. In the Sport mode, the power steering is also tuned for greater dynamic responsiveness.
While the GTI is not short on power and handling, Volkswagen says that the core values of their TSI engines are not lost on the GTI; those of maximum performance and minimum fuel consumption.
Offering a reduction of 0.5L/100km over the previous GTI, the new one sips just 7.4L/100km - pretty frugal for a performance car. CO2 emission of 173g/km ensures compliance with all requirements of the Euro 5 emission standards.
The new GTI is sportier and cleaner than before and safer too.
Safety features are in plentiful supply, extending to the addition of a seventh airbag protecting the driver's knees, with the new Golf achieving a 5 star NCAP safety rating.
In keeping with previous GTI styling enhancements, the Mk VI is recognised by a honeycomb grille with red trim highlights. There's also a black rear diffuser, a pair of chrome tailpipes - one on the left and one on the right, black highlighted side sills and telephone dial-like 17 inch "Denver" alloys wrapped in 225/45/17 rubber.
An optional wheel upgrade is offered in the form of similarly styled, but another inch in diameter "Detroit" alloys. If you fork out the additional $2,000 by ticking this box, a suspension package to match the 18 inch wheels and 40 profile tyres is thrown in.
Interior styling extends to red stitching on the steering wheel and "Jacky" tartan sport seats, the GTI logo worked into the headrest material, brushed stainless steel capped pedals and a custom GTI aluminium gearshift lever. To finish off the sporty interior detailing, there is a black headliner and pillar trim.
Standard equipment for our market includes auto headlights, rain sensing wipers, front fog lights, front and rear ParkPilot and Climatronic dual zone air conditioning.
In car entertainment is taken care of by the RCD 310 CD stereo, along with Volkswagen's MDI (Media Device Interface). The MDI allows connectivity with MP3, USB and iPod.
Volkswagen New Zealand General Manager, Dean Sheed summarised the GTI's recipe for success: "Take the dynamic performance of a true sports car and combine it with the quality, functionality and comfort of a Golf and you have a winning formula."
With a retail sticker of $57,490, the GTI is the perfect all-rounder, being a docile fuel-efficient shopping basket, a practical, safe family hatch and one of the most engaging driver's cars money can buy.