Fifth Generation GTI to Combine 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

The newest iteration of the legendary VW GTI will make its official debut in a few of weeks in Paris. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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

The MK Vs design should ring a chord with traditional GTI buyers as well as the new younger sport compact fans. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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

A 200-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with FSI direct injection will power the production GTI. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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

Seventeen-inch five-spoke Imola alloy wheels wrapped in 225/55 rubber join a host of top-tier features that set the GTI apart from lesser models. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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

Volkswagen is attempting to revisit its former GTI glory days by accenting its modern, well-built cabin with retro-style trim. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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