Volkswagen AG used the backdrop of the Paris Auto Show this past week to debut the redesigned GTI, set to debut next year in Europe, then shortly afterwards in North America as a 2010 model. The design of the car closely follows that of the previously announced sixth generation Golf, which is slated for release in Europe later this year.
Overall, the car will not change dramatically from the fifth-generation model, save for some exterior enhancements, and a more sophisticated interior. Even the 2.0-liter turbo engine would not gain much, promising 210 horsepower, only ten more than the previous generation.
Much of the changes seem to be focused on bringing back the German look to the line, something that loyal customers had complained the company had lost in the fifth generation, and Volkswagen itself had admitted to prior to the start of the official roll-out of the concept cars.
GTI's New Exterior Gets Euro Makover
The most drastic changes to the car appear on the front end. Gone is the large grill, replaced with an elongated rectangular one more reminiscent of the fourth-generation lines. The headlights also appear slightly more elongated and narrower, and the bottom grill more robust and distinct. Furthering this is the fog lights, which accent each end of the bottom grill, and are much bigger than any generation before it.
Volkswagen aficionados will also notice some change to the rear of the car. Volkswagen has done away with the more circular tails that graced the fifth generation model, instead opting to make the tails more rectangular once more. The dual exhaust of the R32 line has also been added to give the rear a more sportier look.
Overall the cars design echoes that of the new Sciroccos announced earlier this year, which are wider than previous models and sit more aggressively than current designs.
Classy, Yet Classic GTI Interior
Volkswagen’s press materials indicate that the goal with the sixth generation interior was to “eliminate class distinctions,” giving the driver the impression that he or she is driving a far more expensive sports car.
The company still carries over the signature GTI checked-pattern fabric, as well as aluminum pedals, leather and aluminum gearshift and parking brake, and signature red seams. However, the company has added more to this model’s interior.
GTI’s would carry over the more luxurious interior that is being sold as part of the new Golf/Rabbit’s allure. Additionally, Volkswagen would borrow from the new Passat are standard Climatronic, touch-screen navigation, and window controls that are further forward on the door panel for easier access.
Standard 2.0L Turbo Engine Gets a Small Boost
Sixth-generation GTI’s would be powered by the newest four cylinder 2.0-liter TFSI engine that is now powering other cars within the Volkswagen AG line. The engine has been rated to produce 210 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, which gives it a slight performance boost from current models.
Those worried about the death of stick shift cars should have no fear -- Volkswagen still intends to produce this line in both DSG and 6-speed manual models. Electronic slip-speed differential should also provide for improved handling.
GTI-R to Replace R32 Line
Details are also beginning to emerge on the replacement for the R32 in the sixth-generation, the GTI-R. According to Automotive News, the car is likely to make its public debut late next year, and pack a 270hp engine that is currently being used in the Audi S3 line, and for the first time in a GTI, all wheel drive.
Volkswagen was not providing any details of the vehicle at the show.
