New Volkswagen Golf GTI boasts enhanced driving dynamics

MANILA: The Volkswagen Golf GTI is regarded as an iconic vehicle featuring excellent handling and its own DNA of design.

The new Golf GTI appears longer and lower compared to its predecessor as it features enhanced driving dynamics, sportier performance, and improved ergonomics, while keeping true to its design.

First introduced in September 1975 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA), the Golf GTI produced an automotive classification that did not currently exist until that time: The hot hatches or sporty front-wheel-drive compacts. It became the most popular hot hatch worldwide. By the end of 2019, more than 2.3 million units of the Golf GTI had been manufactured.

Designers have developed each body component of the new Golf GTI from scratch. They collaborated with the aerodynamicists to refine the vehicle in the wind tunnel. Aerodynamics has been strengthened in terms of a range of discrete measures — the ergonomically streamlined wheel arch linings, extensive underbody panels, custom-made GTI roof spoiler, aerodynamic corners, and Cd-optimized exterior mirrors.

The Volkswagen model also has a wide range of standard and new exterior features. The red strip, which is located in the radiator grille, is a signature feature for a GTI. It extends across the whole front end of the vehicle above the radiator grille, and it combines with the fenders. The tailpipes of the exhaust system, placed on each side of the rear diffuser, along with red/chrome GTI emblems on the front fenders, on the radiator grille, and the hatch are also considered trademarks of the Golf GTI.

Each new Golf GTI is equipped with assist systems like the Car2X for Europe (which promotes local communication with other vehicles as well as the traffic infrastructure), the XDS electronic differential lock, autonomous emergency braking (front assist) with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring, and lane assist (lane keeping system).

For its interior, the standard 8.25-inch composition media infotainment system and digital cockpit have undergone digitalization. They have been incorporated into a network, offering We Connect Plus and We Connect online functions and services.

Other standard attributes include two USB-C ports, LED reading lights, LED daytime running lights, taillight clusters, LED headlights, Bluetooth mobile phone pairing, the Press and Drive comfort start system, single-zone automatic climate control, and a multi-function steering wheel.

The standard 17-inch Richmond aluminum-alloy wheels of the new Golf GTI are also available in 18- and 19-inch sizes. Its red brake calipers can be seen behind the wheels, and it is considered another signature feature of the GTI.

Volkswagen also developed unique GTI styling cues with a broad range of interior details: The plaid GTI sport seats having black side reinforcements, the golf ball shift lever, and the sport steering wheel having three silver double spokes and a Wolfsburg logo.

The Vehicle Dynamics Manager activates and synchronizes the functions of the adaptive damping system, electronic XDS differential lock, and electronically controlled limited-slip differential.

On race tracks, there is a possibility that the stability control (ESC) can be adapted in two phases. In ESC Sport mode, the traction control (ASR) slip thresholds and ESC thresholds are enhanced to lower the level of interventions. In ESC Off mode, drivers can deactivate the ESC. Nevertheless, Swerve Assist and Front Assist modes enable the reactivation of ESC during emergencies.

The progressive variable-rate steering system is integrated as a standard in the new Golf GTI. This is critically distinguished from the basic steering system through a more powerful electric motor. The variable ratio on the steering wheel substantially minimizes the effort needed when parking and maneuvering the vehicle. Yet, steering is more direct on meandering country roads.

Photos from Volkswagen

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