The 8th generation Volkswagen Golf GTI was recently seen at the Nurburgring test track.
Volkswagen’s premium hot-hatch may be back to woo the performance-enthusiasts by the end of 2020. The Polo GTI was welcomed with an uproar in 2016 in India but was eventually discontinued due to low sales. The automaker believes that it was because the GTI is a 3-door version, and Indians in general, are inclined towards 5-door vehicles.
Now, it has been learnt that VW is considering launching the new Golf GTI in India. Nonetheless, we expect the Golf GTI to have the current model’s 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, in a retuned state. The performance figures will increase, 255 PS (+15) for the standard variant and 290 PS (+45) for the TCR variant. Even the respective torque figures of 350 Nm and 370 Nm may be pumped up.
The Golf GTI will be based on a revised version of their MQB platform. It is expected to feature reworked front and rear bumpers, larger air intakes, dual-exhausts and chunkier brakes. Plus, a hot-hatch is never complete without a rear-spoiler! Volkswagen’s primary focus is on handling feel and steering accuracy. The existing electro-mechanical setup has been revamped for better feedback.
If the model is to arrive in India, it will come as a CBU unit owing to the moderation of import rules by the government. The relaxation now enables the automakers to import 2500 units each year, either as a CBU or CKD without the need for homologation. However, vehicles will have to meet international homologation standards.
The Indian public highly appreciated Skoda’s RS version of the Octavia. Following the same track, Volkswagen plans to launch the 8th generation Golf GTI at around Rs. 40 lakhs. Moreover, Skoda might reintroduce the Octavia RS with an even powerful engine churning 245 PS.
Volkswagen Golf GTI India Launch
– The Golf GTI will be based on a revised version of their MQB platform
– Expected to cost around Rs. 40 lakhs
– The performance figures will increase, 255 PS (+15) for the standard variant and 290 PS (+45) for the TCR variant
Source – AutocarIndia.com
