The iconic Volkswagen Golf is finally on sale in India in performance-focused GTI form. We answer the most prevalent questions around the hot hatchback.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI has been a legend among petrolheads globally since the 1980s, and the hot hatchback finally made its India debut last month. Volkswagen’s GTI models aren’t entirely estranged from India – the German carmaker launched the Polo GTI here in 2016 – but this is the first time the Golf will be officially available in the Indian market.
Naturally, automotive enthusiasts in India are curious about the Golf GTI, and we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions surrounding the hot hatchback below.
What is the Volkswagen Golf GTI price in India?
Rs 53 lakh
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is priced at Rs 53 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, placing it among the most expensive hatchbacks currently on sale here. It’s worth noting that the Golf GTI is sold as a full CBU (completely built unit) in India, so it attracts import duties of over 100 percent.
The hot hatchback is available in only one variant, and the Golf GTI on-road price in India should be in the Rs 62-65 lakh range, positioning it as a direct rival to the Mini Cooper S.
Which engine powers the Volkswagen Golf GTI?
2.0-litre turbo-petrol motor
Under the hood, the Golf GTI houses Volkswagen’s familiar 2.0-litre EA888 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. This unit delivers 265hp and 370Nm of torque, and is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels.
How quick is the Volkswagen Golf GTI?
Hits 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds
The Volkswagen Golf GTI accelerates from 0-100kph in a claimed 5.9 seconds. In our review of the Golf GTI, we were able to push the hot hatchback to a top speed of 267kph.
How many units of the Volkswagen Golf GTI will be available in India?
Initial 150 units sold out, more on the way
Volkswagen brought 150 units of the Golf GTI to India via the CBU (completely built unit) route. All of these units have found buyers, but Volkswagen is planning to import a second batch of the Golf GTI comprising 100 units, bookings for which will open later this year.
What features does the Volkswagen Golf GTI offer?
12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen
On the exterior, the Volkswagen Golf GTI comes equipped with Matrix LED headlights and 3D LED tail-lamps with customisable welcome and goodbye signatures, illuminated VW logo, 18-inch alloy wheels, twin chrome exhausts, and GTI-specific red accents. There’s also a limited slip differential on the front axle to aid handling.
Inside, the Golf GTI gets a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, panoramic sunroof, 7-speaker sound system, tartan seat upholstery (a GTI signature), 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, 3-zone climate control, 30-colour ambient lighting, and more. The safety suite consists of 7 airbags, Level 2 ADAS, traction control, etc.
What are the colour options for the Volkswagen Golf GTI?
Four colours on offer
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is available in four colour options: Grenadilla Black Metallica, Kings Red Metallic, Moonstone Grey (pictured above), and Oryx White.
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