Volkswagen Unveil Diesel Version Of New Golf GTI

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Thu, 02 Apr 2009

Volkswagen has unveiled the first high performance diesel alternative to its all new Mk VI Golf GTI .

Powered by VW’s familiar 168bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel unit, the new Golf GTD can reach 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds and onto a top speed of 136mph.

While the figures fail to match the GTI's stats of 6.9 seconds and 149mph, the car’s potential economy and green credentials are much more impressive.

The Golf GTD is capable of doing 53 miles to the gallon – compared to the GTI’s thirsty 31mpg - giving it a theoretical range of 645 miles from its 55-litre tank, while CO2 emissions are a claimed 139g/km, putting it in the £120-a-year tax band C.

The GTD gets the GTI's suspension set-up, with stiffer springs and firmer shock absorbers than regular Golfs, and will also be available with Volkswagen’s Acitve Control Chassis.

The new hot hatch also has a similar body kit to the GTI's, with the same honeycomb grille, and features an electromagnetic 'sound generator' in the exhaust, which alters the exhaust note according to the revs.

Buyers will have the option of either a six-speed manual gearbox or VW's six-speed DSG semi-automatic transmission.

Pricing for UK models is yet to be announced, but VW has revealed it will cost more than the less powerful Golf GT TDI, which starts at £19,230 for the three-door, but less than the £22,410 cost of the Mk VI GTI .

The Volkswagen Golf GTD is expected to go on sale in the UK at the end of July.