Volkswagen first pulled the cover off the seventh-generation Golf GTI concept in 2012 at the Paris Auto Show, while the production version was unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show and will arrive on our shores this week.

The VolkswagenGolf 7 GTI brings some major updates for the model, and for the first time will be offered in two different power levels: a standard GTI and a Performance version. Our editor Ciro De Siena will be one of the first to drive it on local soil, look out for his review on Friday.

Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI is impressive all-rounder

Interior and Exterior Features

The production version remains identical to the concept, as it still features the red painted brake callipers, smoked LED rear lights in a custom design as well as two chrome tailpipes for the sporty exhaust system.

The enhanced interior also delivers a sportier feeling, with the addition of the famous Golf GTI Vienna leather sport seats, an instrument cluster with colour display and unique instrument graphics, and black headliner with red ambience lighting. Just like any other GTI, the specific look in the interior is further complemented by a sport steering wheel with multifunction keys, GTI gear shift grip, special trim strips, and stainless steel pedals and foot support.

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI version also offers newly designed 18-inch ‘Austin’ alloy wheels with size 225/45 tyres, and in addition to the GTI badges at the front and rear, red plates on the front wings at the height of the character line with the same typographic interpretation of the GTI logo that has been used for decades.

The model is also equipped with a high-performance brake system that features ventilated discs and traditional red-painted callipers. Customers will have the option to choose from three standard body colours: Red, Black and White.

Engine Capability

Underneath the bonnet, the new Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI features a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection engine producing 162kW of power and higher torque of 350Nm which makes it possible to reduce the gear ratios for lower engine speeds, adapting them to the engine’s lower rev levels.

The engine is mated to a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional dual-clutch six-speed automatic.

Fuel consumption and performance for the new VW Golf GTI

Fuel consumption on the new VW Golf 7 GTI has been reduced from 7.3-litres/100km to 6.0-litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 139 g/km.

The 162 kW Golf 7 GTI accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 246 km/h and 244 km/h for cars equipped with DSG.

Innovative VW Golf GTI Features

GTI continues to offer innovative technology that is available for the first time in its segment. The standard features include progressive steering, a fatigue detection system, Automatic Multi-Collision Braking System and the advanced XDS+ electronic differential lock system.

Also new are optional systems such as Dynamic Chassis Control with driver profile selection. For entertainment, new VW Golf GTI customers can order the optional and exclusive Golf GTI 400-Watt sound system by Danish brand, DYNAUDIO.

Volkswagen Golf 7 GTI – Price

View the new VW Golf GTI