Hot hatch fans rejoice – a new Volkswagen Golf GTI is on the way.
The German brand has teased the eighth-generation of the popular pocket rocket ahead of its reveal at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show in March. While it’s keeping all the details under wraps until then, we already know largely what to expect.
Volkswagen won’t mess with its winning formula, so this latest generation model will likely get an evolution of the Mk7 GTI’s 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, paired to either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It will send power to the front wheels, possibly via a version of VW’s XDL electronic limited-slip differential.
Exact power and torque figures will have to wait until the Geneva reveal, but a new adaptive chassis system has been confirmed.
What Volkswagen has confirmed is that this will be the most technologically advanced GTI yet, boasting semi-autonomous functions and car-to-car and car-to-infrastructure capability. The company has said thanks to its ‘Travel Assist’ system the GTi will be able to drive itself for periods at speeds up to 210km/h.
Expect high levels of technology throughout the car, including the cabin with a digital instrument panel and infotainment systems. Another new tech touch will be the grille, which will be available either with the traditional horizontal red stripe across the front radiator, or an optional LED bar that links the daytime running lights.
The new Golf GTI is expected to arrive in Australia in late 2020.
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