Golf VI GTD

Mar 29, 2009
source: Volkswagen AG Press Release

VWvortex Editors Note: Whether the U.S. market will see a GTD model remains to be seen. Volkswagen of America would like to offer it here, but given that diesel models command a stiffer price tag over normally aspirated models, holding the price on a diesel GTI model would be tricky. We'll certain keep you up to date on the latest developments...

Wolfsburg/Leipzig, 27 March 2009 - Following the Polo, the BlueMotion initiative and the Golf GTI, Volkswagen is now spanning its next arrow in the bow: this time, the Golf GTD. With a powerful 125 kW (170 PS) TDI engine, it is aimed at diesel drivers who value the maximum in dynamics. The new GTD is extremely thrifty but at the same time extremely sporty. The GTD tag already has a tradition at Volkswagen: the first Golf GTD - the GTI among diesels - was built in 1982.

The new GTD is powerful and can boast of outstandingly low fuel consumption: the common-rail engine requires just 5.3 litres fuel per 100 kilometres (44.4 mpg). That corresponds to CO2 emissions of only 139 g/km. On the other hand, the car has a top speed of 222 km/h (138 mph) and accelerates to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.1 seconds.

Like the GTI, the GTD will also offer, in addition to the 6-speed manual gearbox, an optional 6-speed DSG - the most efficient automatic gearbox of our time, in the opinion of many experts. Equipped with sport suspension and 17-inch alloy "Seattle" wheels, the GTD demonstrates that it shares GTI DNA on one hand through its extremely agile handling and, on the other, through parallels in appearance and equipment. The exterior announces unequivocally that it the sportiest diesel-powered Golf. The designs of the front bumper, the radiator grille and the headlights are identical to those of the GTI. However, the typical horizontal red strips in the GTI's grille are chromed on the GTD.

Volkswagen's GT philosophy has shaped the interior as well: top-of-the line sport seats in black and white as standard; a three-spoke steering wheel flattened along the bottom edge, a brake handle with a leather gaiter as well as light-grey seams to accent the leather handle; and a black moulded headliner are just a few of the GTD's distinguishing features. The base price in Germany is 27,475.00 Euros.

There will be one other key change to enable the 2010 Volkswagen GTI to compete against the price tags of its more affordable competition. In Europe, the GTI will offer a 207-horsepower version of the latest turbocharged 2.0-liter VW inline-4, some 10 hp more than its sister car, the Scirocco coupe. (Even VW admits this is no more than a marketing gimmick to differentiate the two cars.) But since the Scirocco won't be sold in the U.S. because of its rarefied price tag, the U.S.-spec GTI will use the 197-hp lump from the coupe, which is marginally cheaper to produce.

The Golf GTI V50 is pumped not just with extra horsepower but the spirit of a steed. With a Stage 1 ECU tuned to 250hp, you'll post a stunning time of 5.6 seconds in the 100 kph sprint, sending your 2-litre hatch streets ahead.

The aggressive sports styling is amplified by Pirelli "P Zero" 18-inch alloy rims with 225/40 R18 tyres that let you burn rubber in style.

To tame the speed explosion, hug the asphalt with brake discs and callipers used in the range-topping Golf GTI R32, which round off the Golf GTI V50's dynamic road-feel and sensitive handling.

These tune-ups and more will be performed by Volkswagen Centre Singapore's technical experts - using genuine and approved parts and technology - and are covered by Volkswagen's 3-year warranty.

The Golf GTI V50 is a one-time, limited offer. In Singapore only.

Come down to the Volkswagen Centre Singapore today, before they all speed off.

Technical Data
Engine type 4-cylinder petrol engine, turbo FSI
Cubic capacity, litres/cm 3 2.0L / 1,984 cc
Max. output, kW(bhp) at rpm 183 / 246
Max. torque, Nm at rpm 382
Exhaust emission control Euro 4
Gearbox, standard 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox DSG
Top speed, kph with automatic gearbox 261
Acceleration, in seconds from 0-100 kph with automatic gearbox 5.6
Fuel consumption, litres/100 km with automatic gearbox:
City 10.7-11.0
Urban 6.2-6.5
Combined 7.9-8.2
CO 2 emission, g/km 190
Fuel capacity 55L
Exterior dimensions
Length/width/height, mm 4,216 / 1,759 / 1,501
Wheelbase, mm 2,578
Track front / rear, mm 1,534 / 1,516
Wheel size 7.5 J x 18
Tyre size 225 / 40 R18
Turning circle, m 10.9

Interior equipment

* "Climatronic" air-conditioning system with 2-zone temperature control and dust and pollen flter
* Aluminium and leather gearshift handle
* Backrest split foldable 1 ⁄3 to 2 ⁄3 including load through provision and centre armrest
* Front centre armrest with storage box and 2 rear cup holders
* Front and rear carpet mats
* Lockable glove compartment with cooling
* Illuminated vanity mirrors in sun visors
* Automatically dimming interior mirror
* Leather upholstery in "Vienna" on sport seats with height adjustment (heated)
* Luggage compartment cover with net
* Leather-covered multi-function steering wheel with decorative aluminium inserts and gearshift paddles
* Multi-function display "Plus"
* Front and rear power windows
* Radio remote controlled central locking with 2 folding keys
* "RCD 500" with in-dash 6 CD changer, 10 speakers
* Space and weight saving spare wheel
* Storage pockets on front seat backrests and additional storage compartment in roof console
* Cruise control
* Drawers under driver seat
* 2 front reading lights with chrome trim and 2 rear reading lights
* 12-volt socket in luggage compartment

Exterior equipment

* Volkswagen "Pirelli" 18 inch alloy rims with 225/40 tyres "P Zero"
* Automatic low beam mode with "Coming Home" and "Leaving Home" function
* Bi-xenon headlights for low beam and high beam
* Electric tilt sunroof
* Electrically adjustable and foldable outer mirror, separately heated and automatically dimming on driver's side including curb view on passenger side
* Front and rear bumpers in sports design, body-coloured rear spoiler
* Front fog lights
* Heat-insulating blue tinted glass
* Metallic paint
* Rear window wiper and washer system with intermittent control
* White side turn signal lights
* Sport suspension lowered by approximately 15mm
* Wheel locks

Safety equipment

* 3-point seat belts for all passenger seats
* Front seat belts with height adjustment and seat belt tensioner
* Electronic stabilization program (ESP)
* Comfort brake assistant, ABS, ASR and EDL
* Curtain airbag system for front and rear passengers including side airbags at the front
* Driver and front passenger airbag
* Front passenger airbag deactivation
* Height and reach adjustable steering wheel
* Front and rear disc brakes (front ventilated)
* ISOFIX child seat preparation (for 2 rear child seats)
* Driver and front passenger active head restraints
* Power-assisted steering, speed sensitive
* Electronic vehicle immobilization device
* Extended pedestrian protection measures
* Warning buzzer and warning light for front seat belts not fastened
* Flat tyre indicator
* Rain sensor

Performance Upgrades

* Volkswagen Performance Stage 1 ECU Tuning to 246hp
* Volkswagen Performance R32 front and rear brake discs and calipers
* Volkswagen Performance Exhaust
* Volkswagen Performance Body Kit
* Volkswagen "Pirelli" 18 inch alloy rims with 225/40 tyres "P Zero"

Volkswagen Warranty

* 3-year or 100,000km warranty (whichever is earlier)
* 24-hour Volkswagen Roadside Assistance
* 12-year body protection warranty
* 3-year paintwork warranty

Volkswagen’s heavily revised Golf hatchback was named “World Car of the Year” earlier this morning at the New York International Auto Show. A panel of automotive journalists from all over the world selected the Golf over all other new cars introduced for the 2009 model year.

The Golf, which revives a discontinued name in North America, made its debut for the market yesterday at the New York show.

Though not a 100 percent new vehicle - the Golf is more like a heavy reskin of the outgoing model - the new car’s merits were obviously enough to win over the panel of journalists from 25 countries.

Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO, Volkswagen of America, said, “This is a great way to kick-off the new Golf here in America. We’re excited for the arrival of the sixth generation Golf, which will be in Volkswagen showrooms later this year. Simply put, we believe this is the best Golf ever.”

Although many manufacturers are struggling to sell their new 50-state legal clean diesels, Volkswagen is expecting high-demand for its diesel-powered Golf hatchback in the United States. In fact, VW expects about 30 percent of Golf buyers to opt for the diesel engine option.

According to Automotive News, VW is forecasting such a high percentage due to strong demand for its current diesel offerings. Roughly 50 percent of Jetta wagon buyers go for the oil burner option, with 30 percent of Jetta sedan buyers choosing the diesel option. In fact, VW has had to up its allotment of diesel vehicles for the U.S.

However, the same can’t be said for all German diesel offerings. BMW has seen lower-than-expected demand for its diesel-powered offerings – the 3-Series sedan and X5 SUV – with total sales expected to amount to 3,000 units this year. Diesel sales are slightly better at Mercedes-Benz, with 8 percent of sedan and SUV buyers going for the clean diesel option.