Volkswagen Philippines launched the Golf GTI sports hatchback last Feb. 26 at the Volkswagen Bonifacio Global City showroom in Taguig City.
This particular model, based the Golf VII and one of the most iconic of Volkswagen aside from the Beetle, comes with a 2.0-liter turbo-charged gasoline engine that produces 220 ps and a healthy 350Nm of torque.
Transmission used is a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The GTI rides on a sport suspension with 15mm lower ride height than the standard Golf. Most importantly, the GTI includes the XDS electronic differential, which reportedly improves traction and reduces understeer by selectively applying the brake to the inside front wheel. It also helps prevent wheelspin.
VW says that the result is similar to have a mechanical limited-slip differential. Its reputation is that the XDS helps the Golf GTI handle like, or better than, a rear-wheel drive sport sedan.
“The Golf GTI is indeed the sports car with true ‘style and performance,’ because it is The GTI. It is the perfect car for performance seekers looking for fun and excitement,” said John Philip Orbeta, president and Chief Executive Officer of VW Philippines.
For safety, Golf GTI is equipped with electronic stability program, traction control, electronic parking brake, rear-assist rear view camera with 8-channel park distance control, driver alert system, and seven airbags (driver, passenger, driver knee, front side and curtain).
The seventh generation VW Golf was awarded the 2013-2014 Car of the Year Japan, the first import to receive the award. The GTI line was first introduced in 1976, with more than two million units sold since then.
The GTI looks subtly but unmistakably sporty, thanks to 18-inch alloy wheels, modified bumper, grille, and taillamps. It has a small roof spoiler and sports dual tailpipes.
Headlamps are bi-xenon units. The interior will warm your old-schooler’s heart, with the plaid-inserts in the heavily bolstered seats. Other sporty touches are the thick-rimmed, flat-bottom steering wheel and stainless steel pedals and scuff plates.
The Golf GTI, which is priced at P2,290,000, also has a keyless entry system with start-stop button, and dual-zone climate control.
OTHER MODELS
Volkswagen also introduced last Feb. 16 the Polo hatchback, marking the entry of VW in the subcompact hatchback segment.
Volkswagen said other vehicles are due to be released this year in its goal to sell more vehicles in the country. Among those mentioned were the regular version of the Golf, the high-end Touareg, the Passat B8, and automatic versions of the Jetta.
Current Volkswagen vehicles available are the Polo sedan. Beetle, Jetta, Touran, Tiguan and Touareg.
In Cebu City, the Volkswagen showroom is located along A. Soriano Avenue in North Reclamation Area beside the White Gold Club.
Volkswagen Philippines chief operating adviser Klaus Schadewald (left) and Volkswagen Philippines president and CEO John Philip Orbeta lead the launching of the new Golf GTI at the Volkswagen BGC showroom.
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