Golf GTi FINALLY HERE!
The team at VW South Africa has often prided themselves in launching cars not too long after international launches. Recent turmoils have put a hold on that and delayed the much-anticipated Golf 8 launch. But, finally, after a long wait, we are introduced to the brand new Golf 8 GTi.
Welcome home GTi!
EP
So what’s new on the new Golf Gti?
Under the bonnet, the Golf 8 GTI runs a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and sends power to the front wheels. This engine produces 180kw and 370Nm of torque. As compared to the Golf 7 GTI, the new Golf has about 11kw more. Claimed figures are 6.4 seconds to 100 and a top speed of 250km/h.
The exterior of the Golf 8 GTI features 18-inch Richmond alloy wheels, lowered-level LED headlights, and a signature light strip on the grille. (I can’t wait to see this for real, I’m driving this car in a few weeks! EP)
The LED headlights have 22 individual LEDs per headlight matric signal, included are the sliding turning indicators. The car features twin tailpipes, a rear diffuser, and a roof spoiler.
Inside the new Golf 8 GTI, we have the 10.5-inch standard Innovision Cockpit Display, with a touchscreen and easy-to-use infotainment system. Just like many other manufacturers, VW has reverted back to using knobs on the GTi 8, and we’re not complaining. The car also features a new multifunction leather sport flat-bottom steering wheel with touch controls and paddle shifters.
The headlights and fog lights switches have changed to a digital panel and the Golf GTi offers a smaller gear knob as a result of adopting a shift-by-wire system. The car features GTI Vienna leather seats.
Finally the Gti has arrived, expect to see MANY of these on the road over the next few weeks.
