More technology, more power, better handling
No manual transmission,
Volkswagen Australia has completed the Golf GTi line-up with the addition of the Volkswagen Golf GTi Performance hatchback launched this week.
Local pricing for the Golf GTi Performance is:
Golf GTI Performance 6 Speed DSG - $48,490 a $4,000 premium over a DSG-equipped regular GTI.
Options
Metallic / Pearl Effect paint? - $500
Vienna leather appointed upholstery - $3,150
Driver assistance package - $1,300
The Golf GTi Performance gains more power, larger brakes and a first for any Volkswagen a electronically controlled front differential lock.
Using the same MBQ platform as the regular GTi it has the same 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine but produces 169kW of power 7kW more than the regular Golf GTi, it also has 350Nm of torque available from 1500rpm up to 4600rpm where as the regular GTi only has that torque available up to 4400rpm.
The Golf GTi Performance is 10km/h quicker than the regular GTi and can sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.4 seconds, 0.1 seconds faster than the regular GTi. Fuel consumption is slightly higher at 6.6L/100km when compared to the regular GTi at 6.5L/100km.
Only a keen Golf GTi aficionado will be able to pick-up on the difference between the regular GTi and the Volkswagen GTi Performance. On the outside the Golf GTi Performance gains Bi-Xenon headlights, tinted LED rear taillights, 19” Santigao alloy wheels and rear-tinted windows. On the inside the only difference is the use of Clark tartan trim and Alcantara trim on the headrest and side bolsters.
Just like the regular GTi the Golf GTi Performance comes with a great list of standard features including the hallmark Volkswagen instruments, modern leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel and the excellent ergonomics. There is also a 5.8-inch infotainment touch-screen centre console. Buyers looking for a manual are out of luck as the GTi Performance only ships with a 6-speed DSG.
On the road is where the Golf GTi Performance really starts to standout over the regular GTI. On tight and twisty roads around Marysville in Victoria the Golf GTi Performance with adaptive chassis control set to Sport (it can also be set to Comfort, Normal, eco and individual) the GTi Performance destroys all that comes before it.
In a first for any Volkswagen car the Golf GTi performance is fitted with a electronic controlled mechanical diff lock helps deliver a class leading driving experience by increasing the speed at which you can corner and reducing understeer. The system works by sending power to the outside wheel in corners, when paired with GTI’s XDL system that brakes the inside wheel grip and handling is outstanding.
Trying to find faults with the GTi Performance is like looking for a needle in a haystack. The lack of manual will disappoint some and the $3,150 for leather is pricey.
If you are thinking of buying the Golf GTi Performance then you are spoilt for choice when it comes to competitors. To make sure that the Golf GTi Performance is right for you, you should also test the Subaru WRX STi (launched in Australia on 16/06/2014) and the awesome Renault Megane RS265.
At Carshowroom.com.au we love the regular Golf GTi and we would happily part with the extra $4k for the GTi Performance model.
