The Icon of Sportiness

With awards such as [I]World Car of the Year 2009[/I] and [I]2009 Engine of the Year[/I] already under its belt, the new VW Golf GTI is definitely one of the most anticipated new cars this year.

[B]Performance of the GTI[/B]

With 210 bhp, the new GTI's turbocharged 2 litre TSI engine has 10 more horsepower than the previous model's. Although its performance and displacement data may suggest that it's nothing more than a further development of the outgoing engine, it is actually a new powerplant of the EA888 engine family. It is stronger, more refined and more efficient.

From 1,700 rpm onwards, the engine already develops its maximum torque of 280 Nm. This figure is available constantly till 5,200 rpm, while the maximum horsepower can be tapped from 5,300 to 6,200 rpm. The result? A 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds, and a top speed of 238 km/h.

As with the fifth generation model, the new GTI has a 6-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG), which contributes to its extremely low average fuel consumption of 7.4 liters/100 km.

[B]Sportier and safer with XDS[/B]

For the first time in a Volkswagen, the XDS electronic transverse differential lock is being used. It significantly improves traction and handling properties by acting as a type of differential lock that compensates for the understeer that is typically experienced on front-wheel drive cars.

[B]Dynamic yet comfortable thanks to DCC[/B]

The dynamic chassis control (DCC) system is standard on all new GTIs sold in Singapore. DCC continuously reacts to the road surface and driving situation, and modifies the suspension's damping characteristics accordingly.

DCC on the GTI also includes 'Comfort' and 'Sport' settings which can be activated by a button above the shift gate.

[B]Pricing and equipment[/B]

The recommended retail price for the 3-door Golf GTI is $128,300 while the 5-door model is $131,800 (prices are inclusive of COE).

Both models come equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, electric sunroof and 7 airbags.

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Credits: JRC