Your First Look At The Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8 Ahead Of Its Global Unveiling

• VW has equipped the new GTI with Car2X communication tech.
• Likely to be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
• Features an optional bumper-integrated LED crossbar.
• VW says the car will be launched in Europe in the second half of 2020.

Volkswagen has teased the eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI hot hatchback in an image. The Golf Mk8-based GTI will be globally unveiled at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show. It will have Car2X vehicle-to-vehicle communication in addition to a range of advanced safety assist systems such as Travel Assist. VW will launch the Golf GTI Mk8 in select European markets in the second half of 2020.

The GTI is revered for its potent mix of power and handling, and Volkswagen says the tech-laden Mk8 is no different. Under the bonnet, we are likely to find the same 2.0-litre TSI 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine as the Mk7, albeit in a more powerful state of tune. In the Mk7, it made 210hp and 350Nm of torque. It is likely to be offered with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard while a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission will be a part of the options list.

We expect the new Golf GTI to retain its Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) which regulates the damping at each wheel and offers three levels of suspension firmness. The current-generation GTI manages its front-wheel-drive with a VAQ electronic limited-slip front differential, a feature likely to be offered in the eighth generation car as well.

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In the front fascia, the new Golf GTI has narrower headlamps and a wide, perforated lower bumper which houses the daytime running lights (DRLs). An optional LED crossbar will be accommodated in the DRLs. Although the rest of the car remains to be seen, the Golf GTI is expected to retain the sleek lines and staid aesthetic of the Golf Mk8.

Car2X is a vehicle communication protocol which will allow the Golf GTI to ‘speak’ with other Car2X-enabled vehicles on the road. Safety assist systems will include Travel Assist, which will enable the Golf GTI to drive itself on highways using adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

VW Car-Net connected car features, a digital driver’s display, and a touchscreen infotainment system are expected to continue as before. Volkswagen may offer the Mk7’s Fender audio system in some markets as well.

The Golf GTI has always been a friendly daily driver which offered fun at less-than-exorbitant prices. Although the Mk7 was pricey at USD 28,600 (Rs 20.54 lakh), the new tech in the Mk8 could drive its prices even higher. The Golf GTI has a myriad of rivals in other countries such as the Hyundai Elantra GT, Ford Fiesta ST, Hyundai i30N, Renault Megane RS, and Seat Cupra Leon. We are unlikely to see the GTI in India anytime soon. Could India’s response to the recently launched Skoda Octavia RS245 change Volkswagen’s mind?

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