VW Golf GTI launched

The mk6 VW Golf GTI can now be ordered. It may look nigh on the same as the outgoing mk5 hot hatch, but under the skin there’s a handful of changes.

A brand new 2-litre TSI engine is the big news. The engine boasts an extra ten horsepower over the outgoing GTI, at 207bhp, while its 206lb ft of torque is delivered lower down the rev range than before, kicking in between 1700 and 5200 rpm. Together it leads to a cut in 0-62mph (now 6.9sec) and a rise in top speed (149mph).

Despite the performance gains, carbon emissions and fuel consumption both drop – the old car’s 189g/km and 35.3mpg improve to 170g/km and 38.7mpg, more than respectable figures for a performance hatch.

The ride height is lowered by 22mm at the front and 15mm at the rear, while VW’s Adaptive Chassis Control makes an appearance. It uses pneumatically controlled damper units that can be set to normal, comfort or sport. The modes also simultaneously tweak accelerator response and steering settings.

The looks have been enhanced, albeit subtly, with the focus on making the car look wider and squatter, and more like the mad W12-engined GTI concept. Highlights from the mk5, including the 17in telephone dial alloys and red tartan seats, are kept.

Prices are up over the mk5 and, indeed, the VW Scirocco coupe. A three door GTI will set you back £22,410 with a five door costing £22,995. Adding Volkswagen’s DSG dual-clutch transmission will cost you an extra £1305. The car can be ordered now with deliveries beginning on May 22.

You can read Henry Catchpole’s verdict on the new Golf GTI in issue 130 of evo, which is in the shops on April 1.