2006 Volkswagen GTI Review

Specifications

Combining Mk 1 Styling Cues with Modern Sports Hatch Attributes

For Volkswagen Golf GTI enthusiasts, the time of waiting will soon be over. The newest Mk V iteration of the legendary front-drive hot-hatch will officially be introduced in a matter of a few short weeks at the Paris Auto Salon on the 25th of September.

The upcoming GTI is the fifth generation of a model that set the benchmark for compact performance cars and founded an entire segment. The latest version is inspired by the original, as seen with the GTI Concept which took shape less than a year ago. The good news is that its ready to go, and according to Volkswagen theres a lot to look forward to.

The GTI Concept first seen in Geneva was a mock-production prototype of the real thing. At the time of its creation, VWs product development team had their minds set on producing a GTI that brought forward styling cues of the original Mk 1 GTI. The result is an appealing design that should ring a chord with traditional GTI buyers as well as the new younger sport compact fans weaned on Japanese imports.

As it seems, the production vehicle is more or less a carbon-copy of the Concept. Unlike the Mk III and IV generation GTIs, which were essentially regular three-door Golf hatchbacks with upgraded 4- and 6-cylinder engines, VW has upped the ante even higher. The motor featured in the concept was a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with FSI direct injection, is to be featured in the production GTI. It serves up a tantalizing 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, with predicted sprints to 60 mph in the high six second range, finishing off with a top speed of about 145 mph.

A choice of two transmissions will be offered, starting with a short-throw six-speed manual gearbox or the highly advanced DSG twin-clutch sequential-shift transmission. The latter is an extra-cost option, doubling as an automatic gearbox. No doubt most sales will go to the six-speeder, as the clutch-and-shifter setup has traditionally been what GTI purists buy. In Europe, Volkswagen will also offer a 2.0-liter 160 horsepower PD-TDI turbodiesel, but the timing on its introduction has yet to be finalized.

The new GTI makes good use of the Mk V Golfs advanced chassis and steering systems, both of which should improve driving dynamics overall. The suspension system is much more refined than the Mk IV GTI, marking the first time the model will feature a multi-link rear setup. Tauter sport springs which lower the body by 0.6 inches have been fitted to enhance at-the-limit handling. This will also be the first GTI to feature a speed-variable power steering system, tuned of course to deliver quicker turn-in and greater road feel.

In order to help distinguish the GTI from lesser Golf models, VW has given it an exterior makeover. The visual upgrades consist of a honeycomb grille with black fascia trim, a roof spoiler, twin chromed exhaust tips, 17-inch five-spoke Imola alloy wheels wrapped in 225/55 rubber and classic GTI badging. Itll be available in both three and five-door body styles, although the five-door probably wont make it to North America in order to preserve the cars sporting image. That would be a shame, as 5-doors are becoming extremely popular for their practical purposes.

As previously mentioned Volkswagen is attempting to revisit its former GTI glory days by accenting its modern, well-built cabin with retro-style trim. Special GTI sports seats come standard with an 80s-style red/white/black Interlagos cloth weave as standard equipment, but Anthracite (gray) and Beige leather will also be available. Recaro seats are scheduled to appear sometime in mid 2005 as an option. Aluminum has been used for dashboard trim, pedals, gearshift knob and GTI-specific instrumentation.

But theres more… much more, especially concerning the cars specifications list. Although details havent been confirmed for North America, features such as dual-zone digital climate control, electric windows, ABS brakes with brake assist, and electronic differential lock, halogen headlamps with a follow-me-home function, rain sensing wipers and a 10-speaker audio system with a standard CD-equipped head unit, will be included. All five seating positions will receive a headrest and three-point seatbelt, while front and side airbags are also expected to be standard.

Several options, including heated front seats, a tilt and slide glass sunroof, rear parking sensors, a 6-disc CD changer, in-dash DVD navigation system with wide-format LCD display, can be had at an additional cost. Electronic-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals can also be added.

As for the GTIs exterior appearance, a pallet of ten colors, limited to white, red, blacks, grays and blues, will be available. A larger 18-inch version of the same Imola wheels will also be optional.

Finalization on pricing of options along with the specifications sheet will be completed and made available towards the end of September, according to Volkswagen, nearing the cars introduction. The first vehicles will be delivered to European showrooms this November with a price expected to be “under 25,000″ (the equivalent of $30,200 USD). Keep in mind that cars in general, and compact models specifically, are priced much higher in Europe than in America, which offers some of the lowest prices for new cars than anywhere else in the world except Canada (adjusted for exchange of course). The current GTI starts at just over $19,000 and stretches to just over $25,000.

So when can North American enthusiasts expect the next-generation GTI? It looks as if well have to play the waiting game, with VW of North America still believing its current Golf/GTI hasnt reached its expiry date. Model year 2006 seems a realistic forecast.