“Hot” versions of GTI, GTD and GTE – Autoreview

Powerful Golf modifications have a rich history. The petrol version of the GTI first appeared in 1976, the diesel Golf GTD joined the family in 1982, and the GTE hybrid in 2014. In the eighth generation of the hatchback, all three modifications have been preserved, and their debut will take place simultaneously at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.

From left to right – GTD, GTI and GTE versions

The powerful trinity has a single design with a wide air intake in the front bumper and large wheels from 17 to 19 inches in size to choose from. But each version has its own characteristics. Golf GTI has a red stripe between the LED headlights and two exhaust pipes on different sides of the bumper. The diesel Golf GTD is a gray decorative strip on the front and a double-barreled release on the left side. A hybrid Golf GTE is distinguished by a blue stripe and dummies of pipes (the real ones are hidden under the bumper). And the main decorations are in the list of options – this is a luminous jumper between the main headlights and foglights in the form of five cells in the bumper.

From left to right – GTD, GTI and GTE versions

Volkswagen Golf GTI has a 2.0 TSI turbo engine (EA888 evo4 series) with the same output of 245 hp. and 370 Nm, like the previous generation GTI Performance version. And only gasoline hot hatch offers the choice of transmission: six-speed “mechanics” or seven-speed “robot” DQ381 with two clutches.

The diesel Volkswagen Golf GTD is powered by the 2.0 TDI engine of the new EA288 evo family with dual circuit recirculation and sequential urea injection. Return – 200 hp and 400 Nm against 184 hp and 380 Nm for the predecessor. Such hatchbacks are offered only with a seven-speed “robot” DQ381.

Volkswagen Golf GTE is a full hybrid with the ability to recharge from a wall outlet. It is equipped with a 1.4 TSI turbo engine (150 hp) and a six-speed “preselective” DQ400e with a built-in electric motor (116 hp). Peak return – 245 hp and 400 Nm instead of 204 hp and 350 Nm from the old GTE. A traction battery with a capacity of 13 kWh (instead of the previous model 8.7 kWh) should be enough for 60 km of run in electric mode, which is turned on by default after each start and allows you to dial up to 130 km / h.

Alas, Volkswagen has not yet announced the dynamic performance of new cars. Among other features – a full-time electronic simulation of the XDS differential lock and a modified chassis with a rear multi-link suspension, with the GTI and GTD versions, the ground clearance is reduced by 15 mm. For an extra charge – DCC chassis with adaptive shock absorbers.

All three cars have a “chubby” steering wheel, special graphics of virtual instruments and seats with developed lateral support and traditional plaid upholstery, and the main differences are in the decor: in the GTI version it is red, in the GTD modification it is gray, and the hybrid has blue accents. The “mechanics” lever is traditionally decorated with a stylized golf ball, and the engine start button pulsates red before pressing.

The “charged” versions of Golf will enter the European market in the summer. Later, they will join the most powerful Golf R with all-wheel drive and a 333-hp turbo engine.

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