The new Golf will come in a few different trims to North America including a 170hp TDI version. It’s expected to come at the same time of the new GTI in October ’09. Details will be available soon…
As for the new GTI, you won’t want to miss your first opportunity to test drive and see one.
The new Mk5 will come with the 2.0 TSI engine matched to either a six-speed manual or DSG (similar to the Mk5). The new TSI will feature changes including modified pistons, piston rings, an improved oil pump, new induction system and high-pressure fuel pump for better performance. The new upgrades increase power 10hp from the previous Mk5 engine. According to VW, this should get the GTI from 0-62mph in 6.9sec. All while fuel economy rises to 38.7mpg (35.3mpg previously). Torque power is rated at 206 ft-lb which is available between 1700-5200rpm. This power is available early in the RPM range than the Mk5. Top speed is supposedly rated at 149mph.
For traction, the new GTI has a new XDS electronically controlled differential. A series of sensors detects when, through hard cornering for instance, the inside wheel is not sufficiently loaded and applies braking pressure via the Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) in order to restore traction. The result is less wheel spin and greater control on demanding roads.
The suspension for the North American GTI is yet to be released, but European cars will have a lowered ride height from the Mk5 which will be 22mm in the front and 15mm at the rear. The strut-type front and multi-link rear suspension is joined by new anti-roll bars to provide sharper responses. In addition, VW's Adaptive Chassis Control system (ACC), featuring pneumatically controlled damper units, is offered for the first time on the GTI. This allows the driver to select from normal, comfort or sport modes to define the desired suspension, steering and accelerator response settings.
Stay tuned for our first drive review coming next week in the BLOGS.