The first-generation Golf GTI (Mk1) was unveiled way back in June 1976. It has remained the default yardstick for hot hatches to be benchmarked against the world over ever since. The current-generation Golf (Mk8) debuted in October 2019 and rides on the VW Group’s MQB Evo platform. Its faster stablemate, the eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI, is now headed to India!
The Volkswagen Golf GTI sure is a hot hatchback, but not one that will scare the wits out of you. It inherits a lot of the family-friendly and modern accolades borne by the standard Golf while also being immensely fun to drive. It does have a glaring weakness though, and that is its expected acquisition outlay.
Expected Price of the Volkswagen Golf GTI In India
We know that the Volkswagen Golf GTI will come to India via the CBU or Completely Built Unit route. Since it’s be a niche offering, the hot hatchback will be limited to no more than a few hundred units. The German automaker hasn’t officially disclosed specifics regarding the launch date or pricing of the Golf GTI for India.
According to industry experts, the Volkswagen Golf GTI should land on our shores in February 2025 (if not sooner). Unlike most markets, India could receive only one variant of the Golf GTI that’s very well kitted out. Given the nature of CBU imports and the limited-run of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, it could cost you around Rs. 50 lakhs.
Design of the Volkswagen Golf GTI
You’ll have no qualms with the general shape and dimensions of the Golf GTI – its proportions are just right. Some would even call it a “sleeper” as it could drive past and several may not even notice it as something outlandish. However, that perception might change upon looking at the striking front-end of this Golf GTI.
The chiselled bonnet drives your attention onto the VW logo on the grille and to the connected LED running elements. These are accompanied by a “GTI” badge, red stripes that run into the contemporary LED headlights, and swanky indicator units. Located lower down on the sporty bumper is an air dam with a honeycomb pattern and side-integrated LED lights.
Internationally, the Golf GTI gets beautiful 19-inch wheels with a petal-shaped design and can be optioned with red brake callipers. There’s “GTI” branding on the front doors, sporty-looking side skirts, plus a small sharkfin antenna on the roof. Even the fender flares appear restrained yet impactful. The rear of the Golf GTI looks modern, too.
It’s home to a roof spoiler and a sculpted bumper with under-mounted twin-exhaust tips with chrome plating. The transparent taillight housing features a multi-LED setup with svelte indicators and running elements. The overall design reflects understated modernity with zilch fake flattery. The new Volkswagen Golf GTI is 4,289 mm long, 1,789 mm wide, and its wheelbase is 2,627 mm.
Interior & Features of the Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Golf GTI’s interior has striking angles on the dashboard and centre console, blended with varied but well-finished surfaces. The flat-bottom steering wheel gets the coveted “GTI” badge plus small paddle shifters. The electrically-operated sports seats up front are comfortable and score the “GTI” branding as well along with aggressive bolstering. The driver’s seating position is great, too.
Facing the driver is a version-specific 10.2-inch instrument cluster that supports Google Maps navigation. It also displays performance parameters like g-forces and lap times. You can control this display and its different menus using the buttons on the steering wheel. Ruling the roost on the dash is a tablet-style 12.9-inch touchscreen with touch-based slider controls at the base of it.
It’s an easy and responsive system, though it does also incorporate some of the car’s HVAC interface. Those slider controls can get frustrating at times. The Golf GTI’s infotainment system not only supports connected-car technologies but also Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. Users can enjoy a Harman/Kardon premium audio system, wireless charging, dual-zone climate control, and a well-controlled ride.
The Golf GTI’s cabin scores aluminium foot pedals, piano black trim, and a compact gear shifter that sticks out like a thumb. There’s plenty of headroom and legroom for rear-seat occupants, while LED lighting and sizeable windows keeps this interior feeling relatively roomy. However, the dark theme here only encourages sportiness! A boot space of about 374 litres is reasonable.
Expected Technical Specifications of the Volkswagen Golf GTI
Not only is the steering and gearbox of the Golf GTI quick and predictable, they’re well-tuned as well. The 7-speed DSG automatic works as expected when you pummel it, while the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol isn’t lacking in power. In its newest avatar, this four-popper responds with 261 hp and 370 Nm of torque.
However, the Indian market could get this engine’s less intense version that produces 241 hp. The torque figure thankfully remains the same, though. Smashing the throttle should result in 0-100 kmph in around 6 seconds and a top speed of 250 kmph. The independent front & rear suspension is well-tuned, though I hope India gets the adaptive dampers.
This makes a big difference in the way the Golf GTI drives and feels when pushed hard. Moreover, it makes this hot hatchback feel at home even in the city. Volkswagen offers the Golf GTI with a limited-slip front differential, unlocking its true dynamic abilities. Most owners will not miss the all-wheel-drive system that’s standard in the Golf R.
The Golf GTI remains flat around the corners while also keeping traction constant. This is where you can witness the g-force gauge doing its best to please your ego. Depending on your driving ability, the Golf GTI can easily master its way through some of the toughest racetracks.
Verdict
If you’ve the money to spend on an imported Volkswagen hot hatchback, the Golf GTI will not disappoint. It’s intensely quick, drives well on public roads, and has a comfortable cabin filled with high-end tech. It’s also really safe – scoring an easy 5-star rating awarded by multiple international organizations.
FAQs
What is the price of Volkswagen Golf GTI?
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is expected to cost from around Rs. 50 lakhs in India.
Is the Volkswagen Golf GTI manual?
The Volkswagen Golf GTI that’s coming to India will likely not get the manual gearbox, but a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic.
