New VW Golf GTI to debut Paris Motor Show

WOLFSBURG : September 22, 2008 - Volkswagen will round out the latest generation its high-volume Golf with three sporty versions.


First to go on sale will be the 210-horsepower GTI, which will be introduced at the Paris auto show in October. Deliveries will begin before mid-year 2009 with prices starting at 26,400 euros, or about $38,150 at current rates.

The turbo-boosted GTI has a claimed 0 to100 kilometers per hour (62.5 mph) time of 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 239 km/hour, or just under 150 mph.

Next is the Golf GTD, due to go into production next April. Powered by a common-rail diesel generating 170hp, it will start at 27,225 euros, or about $39,340.

The new Golf's range topper will be an all-wheel-drive "R" version from Volkswagen Individual. The in-house customization unit boosts the GTI to 270 hp and adds a black gleaming diffuser, among other features.

The production launch for the Golf R is early November 2009. Its price has not been disclosed.

Images : All new VW Golf VI













[Source : Automotive News Europe .. sub. req.]