The completely unveiled new Golf GTI has been spotted on the snow and ice of the Arctic Circle.
As expected, it follows the design of the standard Golf, with a few sporting elements such as narrower front LED headlights, front grille and wings. Like the previous GTI version, this one will have a unique front and rear bumper, large air intakes, spoiler, sports wheels, better tires and dual exhaust.
The new Golf GTI will be exclusively in the five-door hatchback version and will not have a hybrid powertrain.
Under the hood will be an upgraded version of the EA888 2.0-liter turbo petrol from the current Golf GTI Mk VII. It will be available in two variants – 255 and 295 hp, both paired with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
A more powerful version is reserved for the GTI TCR, which will replace the GTI Performance package.
The interior changes are equally subtle – the next-generation GTI will get a new digital cockpit, an optional hed-ap display, a new T-shaped shift knob, a new center console …
Volkswagen will launch the new GTI next year as well as the GTI TCR, R and GTD versions.