Premium equipment as standard: progressive steering, Driver Fatigue Detection system, Driving Profile Selection, Multi-collision brake, Adaptive chassis control and Extended Electronic Differential Lock (XDL)
Launceston, October 2013. Since 1976, the letters "GTI" have stood for superior dynamic performance. The first Golf GTI became an instant classic, and this month marks the highly anticipated launch of the all-new seventh generation Golf GTI in Australia. With a 162 kW output doubling that of the Golf GTI Mk 1 (81 kW); the GTI offers increased power, significantly more torque and the fastest acceleration yet in a GTI.
The new Golf GTI accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. Based on its handling properties, the GTI is uniquely placed to penetrate the market segment of considerably more expensive sports cars.
The seventh generation of the sporty icon is the first Golf GTI to launch with standard technology highlights such as progressive steering, the Driver Fatigue Detection system, Driving Profile Selection, Multi-collision brake and Extended Electronic Differential Lock (XDL). Optional systems available in the new GTI include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and the surroundings monitoring system Front Assist with City Emergency Braking.
The Golf GTI is equipped with a Start/Stop system and a six-speed gearbox as standard, achieving the low fuel consumption value of 6.2 l/100 km (CO2: 144 g/km). Its combined fuel consumption has been reduced by 1.5 litres or 19 per cent compared to the previous model (155 kW).
An optional six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) offers uninterrupted propulsive power; matching the character of the sporty icon perfectly. In this case, the fuel consumption is 6.6 l/100 km (equivalent to 153g/km CO2), 13 per cent less than that of the previous GTI.
As with the models already launched in the Golf 7 range, the GTI is based on the new modular transverse matrix (MQB), and also benefits from significant weight reductions improving performance and efficiency. The new Golf GTI weighs 1,380 kg to 1,324 kg (56 kg savings in the DSG). In urban traffic and traffic jams, the standard Start/Stop system of the GTI also has a positive effect on fuel economy.
The substantially higher torque of 350 Nm (instead of the 280 Nm of the previous model) made it possible to also reduce the gear ratios for lower engine speeds, adapting them to the engine's lower rev levels. Internal engine modifications were also made − including a new and innovative thermal management system − contribute towards the noted 19 per cent improvement in fuel economy in the 2.0-litre TSI manual.
Along with the iconic GTI insignia, the new Golf GTI is distinguished from other cars in the model series by numerous additional features. The exterior features red painted brake callipers, smoked rear lights and chrome tailpipes on the left and right. Also standard on-board the most powerful, fastest and most fuel-efficient Golf GTI ever are the newly designed standard 18-inch 'Austin' alloy wheels with size 225/45 tyres.
The GTI heritage cues continue in the interior. The fabric known as "Jacky" in the previous model was redesigned and is now known as "Clark". In addition, the sports seats and door trim panels can be ordered with optional "Vienna" leather upholstery. The GTI instrument cluster also makes a strong statement with a colour display and unique instrument graphics. The GTI-specific look in the interior is rounded out by such features as an independent leather sports steering wheel (with multifunction keys), red ambience lighting (in front, in the trim strips of the doors and the stainless steel door sill guards) and brushed stainless steel pedals.
The Mk 7 Golf GTI continues the legacy the original started in 1976. Through the previous six generations, the Golf GTI has continued to push the boundaries of what is possible technologically in a sports car with practical, everyday applications. A bestseller in the Australian market with cult status, the seventh generation Golf GTI is set to raise the bar even higher with unprecedented levels of performance, efficiency and convenience.