New Mark VI Volkswagen Golf GTI pictures and details

Volkswagen has released pictures and details of the new Golf GTI – the sixth iteration of the iconic hot hatch.

Work first started on the Golf GTI in 1973, with VW identifying dynamics, a responsive four-cylinder engine and driver involvement as the core values of the GTI.

And while VW says that while the Golf has evolved to be faster, safer and more efficient those core values remain.

A new 2.0-litre TSI engine, available linked to either a six-speed manual or DSG double-clutch gearbox, features modified pistons and piston rings, an improved oil pump, new induction system and a high-pressure fuel pump over the outgoing TSI engine with identical displacement.

As a result power is up by close to ten horsepower at 208bhp between 5,300 and 6,200rpm, wllowing the GTI to accelerate to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds.

Emissions fall from 189g/km to 170g/km (or 173g/km with the DSG), while economy rises from a combined 35.3mpg to 38.7mpg (38.2mpg with DSG).

Maximum torque of 206lb-ft is available between 1,700 and 5,200rpm – slightly lower in the rev range, while maximum speed rises to 149mph.

A new XDS electronically-controlled differential is standard, applying brakes via the Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) to restore traction, resulting in less wheelspin and greater control.

Ride height is lowered by 22mm at the front and 15mm at the rear on a strut-type front and multi-link rear suspension twinned with new anti-roll bars.

Adaptive Chassis Control system featuring pneumatically controlled damper units is offered for the first time on the GTI, allowing the driver to select from normal, comfort or sport modes to define the desired suspension, steering and accelerator response settings.

Style-wise, the basis of the GTI is the chassis structure of the new Mk VI Golf, onto which is added an aggressive new front bumper with deep honeycomb airdam framed by vertical foglights. ABove is a new grille element adorned by the GTI badge. The new GTI is 27 mm wider than the car it replaces.

At the rear, a diffuser is located between an all-new exhaust system with separated tailpipes to lower further the stance of the car. A rear wing sits above a pair of smoked rear light lenses and a single ‘GTI’ badge.

Standard equipment highlights on the new GTI include red and black tartan sports seats with red stitching and headrests featuring the ‘GTI’ logo, a flat-bottomed GTI multifunction steering wheel, red brake callipers, 17-inch ‘Monza’ alloy wheels and 2Zone electronic climate control.

ABS, ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) and seven airbags are standard. The Golf was recently awarded a maximum five-star rating by the EuroNCAP crash testing agency.

The new GTI can be ordered from today at Volkswagen Retailers with the first cars ready to drive away on the car’s on sale date, 22nd May.

Golf GTI model line-up and prices: