Autoblog

13-year-old VW GTI becomes world's fastest at 208 mph [w/video]

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 20:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Videos, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Jeremy Freedman's super-fast GTI - Click above to watch video after the jump

Volkswagen created the hot hatch segment in the late 1970s with the original GTI. The car's performance repertoire, however, did not include Ferrari-humbling maximum speeds. GTI aficionado Jeremy Freedman set out to unequivocally obliterate this top speed shortcoming with his Mk III. During last fall's Texas Mile event, Freedman piloted his black 1997 GTI to a scarcely believable trap speed of 208.1 mph!

Remarkably, Freedman's car is powered by the same VR6 engine and five-speed manual gearbox it left Wolfsburg with. They have been slightly modified, however, with the VR6 being opened up from 2.8 to 3.0-liters and turbocharged to the tune of 800 horsepower. More startling is news that the gearbox internals have been been largely untouched save for a beefier clutch and the addition of a limited slip differential. (Those changes were required to put that much power to the ground through the front wheels.) Rather than mess with the gearing, Freedman relied on larger wheels and tires to adjust the final drive ratio so he could top 200 mph. You can check out video of Freedman's record-setting run after the jump.

[Source: Eurotuner]

Continue reading 13-year-old VW GTI becomes world's fastest at 208 mph [w/video]

13-year-old VW GTI becomes world's fastest at 208 mph [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Jun 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Harder-core Volkswagen GTI, new limited edtion coming to Worthersee

Zach Bowman — Fri, 07 May 2010 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Budget, Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen, Design/Style

Volkswagen is set to descend on the yearly Audi/Volkswagen meet up in Worthersee, Austria with a pair of reworked GTI hatches. First up is a collaboration with Adidas that features a rash of aesthetic changes, including new wheels and sports seats. You'll also find the stock headlights and tail lights swapped out in favor of the trick hardware found on the Golf R. VW says that it will push 4,410 examples of the Adidas-branded GTI via European dealers.

Then there's the Golf Excessive Edition. As far as we can tell, the company hasn't bothered to breathe on the stock turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Instead, VW has a wider track with bodywork to match. Throw in a reworked set of springs, bigger brakes and a free-breathing exhaust and you've got a recipe for getting us all hot and bothered.

VW hasn't released any photos of the Golf Excessive Edition just yet, so we'll have to wait until the Worthersee event kicks off next week to lay our eyes on the creation. Stay tuned. In the mean time hop the jump for the translated press release.

[Source: VW]

Continue reading Harder-core Volkswagen GTI, new limited edtion coming to Worthersee

Harder-core Volkswagen GTI, new limited edtion coming to Worthersee originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 May 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Revozport gives Volkswagen Golf the Razor treatment

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Revozport Golf Razor - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just because you didn't buy the full-bore GTI when the sixth-generation Golf hit dealers doesn't mean you can't have some added aftermarket hotness. Revozport has just launched its new Razor package which can be fitted to the entire Golf lineup, including TDI models.

Appearance wise, Revozport offers three different stages of customization. Stage I, retailing for $2,333, includes a kevlar hood, new front bumper with LED running lights and an adjustable splitter, and a rear bumper treatment with a new diffuser below. Opting for Stage II ($3,526) adds a roof spoiler, fender treatment and side skirt kit to the Stage I goodies, and the top-rung Stage III ($4,474) includes carbon fiber touches (including a roof) and underspoilers for both the rear diffuser and the left and right flanks. Don't want the whole package deal? Revozport would be happy to sell these items individually, as well.

Customers who order the complete Stage III kit get some added dynamic improvements, as well. Revozport increases the front and rear tracks by 25 and 35 millimeters, respectively, allowing owners to fit more aggressive tires. What's more, the tuning company is currently working on a 290-horsepower engine mapping system, complete with an exhaust upgrade and an intercooler. A costly addition, no doubt, but it'll sure make your GTI scream. Hit the jump to read the full details in the press release.

Gallery: Revozport GTI Razor

[Source: Revozport]

Continue reading Revozport gives Volkswagen Golf the Razor treatment

Revozport gives Volkswagen Golf the Razor treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Apr 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Consumer Reports adds six cars to Top Picks list, touts diversity

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:58:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Hybrid, Minivan/Van, Sedan, SUV, Truck, Hatchback, Chevrolet, GM, Hyundai, Infiniti, Lexus, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, Luxury, Off-Road

2010 Consumer Reports Top Pick Cars - Click above for high-res image gallery

Each year, the automotive editors of Consumer Reports select their Top Pick Cars, representing vehicles that are the best in their individual segments. These cars are deemed to have "average or better" predicted reliability and have scored high marks in government safety testing. In past years, automakers like Honda and Toyota have dominated this list, but since more and more manufacturers are ramping up their quality within each competitive segment, the 2010 list proves to be the most diverse CR Top Picks group in over a decade.

So, which cars garner the most praise from CR? The Nissan Altima has officially dethroned the Honda Accord from the top family sedan spot, the Volkswagen GTI takes honors as the best sporty car, the trusty Subaru Forester takes the cake in the small SUV category, the quirky Mazda5 wins for best family hauler, and both the Chevrolet Traverse and Silverado stand tall as the best family SUV and pickup truck. These six newcomers join the Hyundai Elantra SE, Infiniti G37, Toyota Prius and Lexus LS460L to round out the entire list of Top Pick Cars.

Unlike most automotive media outlets (Autoblog included), Consumer Reports actually buys its own test cars before putting them through rigirous evaluations of handling, braking, comfort, safety and more, and each test car is roughly 6,000 miles older by the time all of the tests have been completed. Follow the jump to read the official press release from CR, and scroll through our attached gallery to see high-res shots of all the 2010 Top Pick Cars.

Gallery: 2010 Consumer Reports Top Picks

[Source: Consumer Reports - sub. req.]

Continue reading Consumer Reports adds six cars to Top Picks list, touts diversity

Consumer Reports adds six cars to Top Picks list, touts diversity originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Germany's Wimmer RS unveils stonking 386 HP Volkswagen GTI

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Wimmer RS 386-hp GTI -- Click above for image gallery

Wimmer RS played around with a VW GTI, and this is the result: nothing too much on the outside and terror under the hood. The exterior, especially for a German tuner, is admirably untouched: just a set of 20-inch Motec Antares wheels, and a lower stance with height-adjustable coilovers.

Up front, though, the revisions take the 211-hp, 2.0-liter TFSI up to 386 hp and 336 ft-lb of torque. The upgraded grunt is courtesy of a new turbo and a thorough rework of the intake and manifold, injection valves, piston rods, fuel pump, and other sundries, along with a new software flash. Top speed is 166 mph, which just might be fast enough to outrun those graphics. Follow the jump for the press release, or have a look at it in the gallery of photos below.

Gallery: Wimmer RS 386-hp GTI

[Source: Wimmer RS]

Continue reading Germany's Wimmer RS unveils stonking 386 HP Volkswagen GTI

Germany's Wimmer RS unveils stonking 386 HP Volkswagen GTI originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Volkswagen GTI named Automobile Magazine car of the year

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:33:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Etc., Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen

2010 Volkswagen GTI - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's funny how publications have a personality. It shouldn't be funny, as obviously all publications have an editor and said editor has a collection of likes and dislikes, but we still find it amusing. Here's a for instance. This year, our pals over at Motor Trend went ahead and named the Subaru Outback their Sport Utility Vehicle of the Year. Besides the obvious issue (a jacked up station wagon counts as an SUV?), this selection makes perfect sense considering that in 2008, the Subaru Forester won the same award. Funny, huh?

Therefore, it should surprise no one that Automobile has named the 2010 Volkswagen GTI their Automobile of the Year. Why? Because they did the same thing back in 2007. Really? Yeah, man... really. Only this time, we're not sure how ha ha funny we find this selection. It's more funny odd. For one thing, the 2010 GTI really isn't all that different than the 2007 GTI. Same powerplant, same suspension, same hard points. All that's really new are some body panels and an electronic differential, the latter of which is suspect during sustained, high-speed back country driving.

All that said, the new GTI is a fine car - we said so ourselves a few months back. However, we just don't see it as COTY material. In fact, if we were to select a single car to shower praise down upon... we're not even sure where we'd start. Some of us (ahem) would no doubt push for the Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 because for the money it just can't be beat (or for that matter, for twice the money). Still others would pick... the Ford Fusion Hybrid. So what do we know? Oh wait, two of us are on the Internet Car of the Year jury...

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Volkswagen GTI

[Source: Automobile]

Volkswagen GTI named Automobile Magazine car of the year originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

VW launches Real Racing GTI on iPhone, giving away six GTIs!

John Neff — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Marketing/Advertising, Hatchback, Volkswagen, Toys/Games

2010 Volkswagen GTI Mark VI prize car - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen is no stranger to promoting its vehicles using games for the iPhone and iPhone Touch. Witness such forgetables as Volkswagen Polo Challenge 3D [iTunes link] and Volkswagen Scirocco R 24H Challenge 3D [iTunes link], both by developer FISHLABS. Neither game is very fun to play, being on the early end of the curve for racing games on Apple's smart phone. For the launch of the new GTI, however, Volkswagen got smart and instead partnered with developer Firemint, which already has a well received racing game for sale in the App Store called Real Racing [iTunes link]. Together, the two companies have put out Real Racing GTI [iTunes link], a free version of the $6.99 app that exclusively features the new 2010 Volkswagen GTI.

We'll get to the game in a second, but the big news is that VW is putting some promotional muscle behind the app by launching a contest (view rules and regulations here) to give away six brand new, limited edition GTIs just for playing the game. Thankfully, your chances of winning are not tied to your skill level, and entering involves simply registering through the game and completing a race. What's more, you can enter once per day and Volkswagen will pick a winner each week for the next six. The GTI prize cars are limited edition models with numbered dash plaques, special interior and exterior trim and unique 18-inch black wheels.

Real Racing GTI App images - Click above for high-res image gallery

As for the game, it's pretty solid. While only featuring the GTI and fewer tracks, all the gameplay mechanics are the same as the paid app. The control settings are also extensive allowing you to steer using either the device's accelerometer or a steering wheel on the screen, as well as choosing between auto or manual modes for accelerating and braking. The competition AI, however, is pretty weak, allowing you to pass them all from the back of the grid before the first turn and then hanging on the back of your bumper for the rest of the race.

So here's our advice: DO NOT download Real Racing GTI and DO NOT register for the contest to win one of six limited edition GTIs. We think we have a real shot at winning and don't want you all throwing the curve.

Gallery: Real Racing GTI App images

Gallery: Volkswagen 2010 GTI Mark VI prize car

[Source: Volkswagen | iTunes link]

VW launches Real Racing GTI on iPhone, giving away six GTIs! originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

eBay Find of the Day: 1984 Volkswagen GTI MkI

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Auctions, Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen

1984 Volkswagen GTI MkI - click above image for hi-res gallery

No doubt we've had GTI on the brain the past week or so after driving Volkswagen's new, fun, we-like-it-more-than-we-thought-we-would MkVI GTI. And if you read our review, you're aware that Volkswagen is actively trying to market the new GTI as if it's cut from the same cloth as the original gangsta GTI. It's priced nice, too, starting at just a smidge over $23,000. But what if you could get a real GTI, an ur GTI - which would you take? And what if said MkI GTI had only 517 miles on it? That's not a typo - just 517 miles! And stored properly, too. At least according to the seller, "My father had owned a Shell Service station for 50 years, he knows how to maintain a vehicle LOL and is quite the perfectionist."

Well, friends, today is your lucky day. Here we have a 1984 GTI that isn't even done with its break in period. The story -complete with lots of LOLs - goes something like this. The seller's dad bought the car new in January of 1985. He had a new Blaupunkt stereo installed (gotta have that). Then he had back surgery. Two more surgeries and twenty-five years later, the poor guy still can't drive a stick. So, the GTI has to go. And there's no reserve. Currently the bidding's at $5,600 with over six days to go. We have the strange premonition that it's going to tick up a bit higher than that. Happy bidding! Big ol' Autoblog shoutout to Mike R. for the tip!

Gallery: eBay 517 Mile 1984 Volkswagen GTI MkI

[Source: eBay Motors]

eBay Find of the Day: 1984 Volkswagen GTI MkI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

First Drive: 2010 Volkswagen GTI reminds us why we like hot hatches so much

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:55:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen, First Drives

2010 Volkswagen GTI - Click above for high-res gallery

Performance Icon. That two-word phrase is bandied about so often there's hardly any meaning left in its 15 letters. After all, if a Porsche 911 is rightly referred to as a performance icon, can we call a Honda Civic Si the same? And are we talking any old 911/Civic Si, or just certain years and models? For instance, there is no doubt that the B13 Nissan Sentra SE-R, with its killer SR20DE engine, is a performance icon, but what about the current B17 Sentra SE-R? How about the Spec V? No way - the Versa has a better chassis.

We mention this problem with the Performance Icon label because Volkswagen described the all-new 2010 MkVI GTI to us as the "performance icon of the brand." As you may have noticed, Volkswagen's been delving pretty deeply into its past for marketing purposes as of late. First they tried reintroducing the Rabbit name much to the chagrin of Golf fans nationwide, and now they have Max, the black 1964 Beetle telling you that VW is "Das Auto." On a smaller scale, it's attempting to remind potential GTI buyers that the new model is both a direct descendant of and flag bearer for the original 1983 MkI GTI. Here comes the begged question: is it?

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Volkswagen GTI

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Volkswagen GTI reminds us why we like hot hatches so much

First Drive: 2010 Volkswagen GTI reminds us why we like hot hatches so much originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

New VW Golf R20 (GTI-R) may come to America

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Hatchback, Volkswagen

2010 Volkswagen Golf R20 - click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen unveiled the new high-zoot R version of the MK VI Golf at the Frankfurt Motor Show last month, but it declined to say whether Americans would ever get a chance to buy one. Fans of the R32 will likely be clamoring for the new R20 if does make it to our shores, in part because of the 400 pounds it has shed.

While we are here in Wolfsburg today to drive VW's more pedestrian Golf varietals, we had a chance to follow up on the R20 possibility for America. First, we asked VW of America CEO Stefan Jacoby, who told us it was being studied and that no decision had yet been reached about the R20 for America. A little later, we talked with Andres Valbuena who happens to be the U.S. product planner for the Golf, GTI and New Beetle. That means he guides the direction of the Golf in this country. To give you some perspective on where Andres stands on this subject, his personal ride back home in Virginia is a 2004 edition R32 with an added blower, so word that Valbuena is pushing hard to get the R20 should come as no surprise. Further, if it does cross the Pond, he wants it available in both two- and four-door bodystyles with a choice of manual or DSG transmissions.

If the R20 does make it here, odds are VW won't be able to justify two powertrains given the expected low volumes. In that event, Valbuena tells us he prefers the manual, but regardless, all R20s would be equipped with all-wheel drive. Working in the R20's favor is the fact that this is essentially the powertrain from the Audi TT-S which has both gearbox options. Hopefully, we'll have a decision from Wolfsburg within a year. If you want the R20 in your local VW showroom, make your voice heard in the comments because the automaker is listening.

Gallery: Volkswagen Golf R

New VW Golf R20 (GTI-R) may come to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Volkswagen introduces GTI gear for the whole family

Noah Joseph — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 11:25:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Volkswagen

Regardless of what a product actually is when it hits the auto industry these days, it apparently must have the term "sport" attached to it in some way.

This marketing practice is applied liberally, across all vehicle classes. Sedans aren't sedans anymore, they're sports sedans. Same goes for wagons and hatchbacks. Heck, even sport utility vehicles are getting new and fascinating names like "sport activity coupes" and such. So is it really any big surprise that sportswear is finding its way into the mix? Only now, it's not just storied marques like Ferrari or Porsche that are turning their brands into merchandising assets. If you build an individual model with a sporty image, you can capitalize on that too. Just look at Volkswagen's latest line of GTI products.

For now, it's limited to a key chain, a military-style cap, a messenger bag, and, somewhat incongruously, some baby gear. If your life isn't complete without, say, a GTI golf towel, you're outta luck - for now. The merchandise line is expected to grow beyond these few initial products, giving owners additional opportunities to let everyone know what they (and their offspring) are riding in. In the meantime, you can check out the preliminary collection in the gallery below.

Gallery: Volkswagen GTI lifestyle accessories

[Source: Volkswagen]

Volkswagen introduces GTI gear for the whole family originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 Apr 2009 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

New York: 2010 VW GTI brings the hot back to the hatch

Drew Phillips — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:50:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2010 Volkswagen GTI

When the MKV GTI arrived in 2005, many of Volkswagen's faithful felt the car had lost the edgy look that so many dearly loved. Fortunately the restyled sixth generation GTI has been given sculpted new exterior that features much more aggressive and detailed bodywork. A new front fascia is fitted up front, with wider central intake that now flows into the side ducts styled with horizontal rakes. The upper grille is now smaller and carries the GTI's signature red striping, and the Scirocco-inspired headlights provide the edgier look that was missing on the previous generation. The rear of the car has a sportier appearance as well with restyled taillights and dual exhaust tips that now exit on both sides of the car through a diffuser-look appendage. Apart from minor styling tweaks, the interior is largely unchanged from the previous generation, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's everything we would expect from a Volkswagen, which essentially means it sets the bar for all others in its class. Power comes from VW's tried and true turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four producing 210 horsepower and 206 lb-ft torque mated to either a six-speed manual or DSG. Both two- and four-door variants will be available When the GTI arrives in dealerships later this summer.

Gallery: New York 2009: 2010 Volkswagen GTI

Continue reading New York: 2010 VW GTI brings the hot back to the hatch

New York: 2010 VW GTI brings the hot back to the hatch originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

New VW Golf GTD to debut in April, Rabbit GTD to follow for U.S.?

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Green, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Volkswagen Golf Mk VI GTI - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've been hearing rumblings about a new variant of the Volkswagen Golf and Rabbit for several months now, ever since a reader sent in what appeared to be an order form for the new sixth generation model for the U.S. market. This new model was dubbed the Rabbit GTD, implying that it's a sporting variant like the GTI, but powered by a TDI diesel engine. Volkswagen of America has only confirmed that the U.S. will get a new Mk VI GTI this summer followed by a new Rabbit in the fall that will offer TDI power.

It now appears that the Golf GTD will at least be unveiled in April at the AMI Car Show in Leipzig, Germany. If the reports are correct, the GTD will use the more powerful 170-hp version of the 2.0-liter TDI that we already get here in the Jetta. This is the same unit used in the Jetta TDI cup race cars as well as the European market Audi TT TDI. The Golf/Rabbit GTD will be a bit quicker than the Jetta with a 0-60 time of about 8.2 seconds, but should still approach the 40+ mpg real world mileage of the sedan. As for whether or not it will be sold in the U.S., we still don't know, but at least it exists. Thanks to Andrew for the tip!

Gallery: 2009 Volkswagen GTI MK VI

[Source: 4WheelsNews]

New VW Golf GTD to debut in April, Rabbit GTD to follow for U.S.? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Coming to America: Volkswagen GTI R-Series

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 09:48:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click above for a gallery of the Volkswagen GTI

As good as the Volkswagen GTI is, an infusion of extra power couldn't possibly hurt. VW's GTI R32 was a highly refined car, but buyers quickly realized that the 3.2L VR6's 250 horsepower was barely enough to compensate for the engine's added weight over the standard GTI's 2.0L turbo four and the R32's heavy all-wheel drive system. What's more, the R32 was short-lived; it's no longer available for the 2009 model year. Enter the GTI R-Series.

According to Car and Driver, VW will bring the R-Series to the United States, possibly to be named R20, featuring the powerplant from the Audi S3. Expect around 270 horsepower from a high-pressure 2.0L turbo engine - a 70-horsepower improvement over the standard GTI. That power will be funneled through either a standard 6-speed stick or dual clutch DSG transmission to the front wheels. Like some other high-power front-wheel drive cars, an electronic differential will try and cope with the inevitable torque steer.

As much as we'd love to see the big 3.6L V6 engine from the Passat stuffed under the GTI's hood, a small turbo four will likely make for a better handling package along with reasonably good fuel economy - definitely something to look forward to later this year as a 2010 model. Thanks for the tip, other man!

Gallery: 2009 Volkswagen GTI LIVE

[Source: Car and Driver]

Coming to America: Volkswagen GTI R-Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Feb 2009 09:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

More of the Same: Volkswagen Polo GTI rumormill swirls

Noah Joseph — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Volkswagen, Rumormill

Click above to view the current Volkswagen Polo GTI in our hi-res image gallery

The interwebs were all alight like Times Square last night with reports of a new Polo GTI on the way. According to Auto Express, the mini-GTI will upgrade on the upcoming replacement for the current Polo with all manner of GTI-trademarked upgrades, from sport seats to the black grille with red stripe, with power provided by the same 1.4-liter twin-charged TSI four as the upcoming SEAT Ibiza Cupra and driving 178hp through a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG to reach sixty in about seven seconds.

Sounds good, though we're not likely to get the Polo in the American market, in regular or sport versions, for the foreseeable future. What the reports apparently neglect to mention, however, in their enthusiasm for a revived Polo GTI, is that Volkswagen already makes one. The current Polo GTI revived the model in late 2005 with a 1.8-liter turbo four offering up 148hp. Because that didn't measure up against the competition, VW came out with the Cup Edition that boosted output up to 178hp, the same output which Auto Express pegs for the new version. If the new Polo GTI does indeed bow this year in Frankfurt, we'll be on hand to bring it to you live, but one thing's for sure: Wolfsburg will hardly be reinventing the wheel if and when it does.

[Source: Auto Express]

More of the Same: Volkswagen Polo GTI rumormill swirls originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Jan 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

MkVI VW Rabbit & GTI coming to America next September

Noah Joseph — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click above for a hi-res gallery of the 2009 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Volkswagen customers in the United States have been patiently awaiting the arrival of the new sixth-generation Rabbit and its GTI performance variant. And while it's still a little ways off, at least there's a light at the end of the tunnel as the German automaker has announced that the new model will hit the U.S. market in early September 2009. European customers, meanwhile, already began taking delivery of their new Golfs last month, with the GTI due to arrive there next summer.

American versions will initially be available with the current 2.5-liter inline-five, a new 2-liter turbodiesel in the TDI version and the GTI's 2-liter TSI. A new 1.8-liter TFSI is expected to replace the base 2.5-liter unit, with 4Motion all-wheel-drive, TwinDrive hybrid and LPG versions to follow, as well as a possible all-electric version and a replacement for the current top-of-the-line R32 performance model. North American models will also come equipped with adaptive cruise control, adaptive chassis control and 19-inch wheels as standard. Of the current (fifth-generation) Rabbit, the GTI version accounted for roughly one third of models sold, which Volkswagen expects to continue with this new generation. In the meantime, you can check out the high-resolution images in the two galleries below.

Gallery: 2009 Volkswagen GTI LIVE

Gallery: Volkswagen Golf VI

[Source: Inside Line]

MkVI VW Rabbit & GTI coming to America next September originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

VIDEO: 2009 Volkswagen GTI VI on the move

John Neff — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click above to watch video after the jump

The 2009 Volkwagen Golf GTI has made its official debut today at the 2008 Paris Motor Show today, but it will be a few weeks if not months before anyone, let alone us, gets time behind the wheel to sample this rapid rabbit. Fortunately we've found some video of the new GTI being driven somewhere in the world by people other than us, and it looks like they're having fun doing it. GTI-ophiles will get their choice of three- or five-door models when the car arrives, though both will be powered by the same 2.0L TFSI four-cylinder producing 210 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual or DSG is offered, and new for '09 is an XDS electronic limited-slip differential. Feel free to watch it all in action after the jump, and don't worry, this video has no janky hair-metal soundtrack from the '80s. All you hear is the engine revving and road passing beneath the tires.

Gallery: 2009 Volkswagen GTI LIVE

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2009 Volkswagen GTI VI on the move

VIDEO: 2009 Volkswagen GTI VI on the move originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumormill: Volkswagen working on GTI 'Plus', GTD, and R42

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Paris Motor Show, Volkswagen

Click above for high-res gallery of Volkswagen Golf GT MkVI

VW is going to make the most of its new GTI, with three models joining what has already been a well received hot hatch. A 'GTD' variant using a 2.0-liter common rail diesel will go into production in April 2009, with 170 horses and nearly 260 lb.-ft. moving through either a six-speed manual or VW's DSG gearbox. The GTD will be sold at an €800 premium over its gasoline brother, and will get to 62 mph about a second slower in return for longer hauls between refills.

After that, toward the end of 2009, comes the GTI 'Plus' that will push the car dangerously close to the Audi S3 and may spell the end of the current R32. A 60 hp bump over the standard GTI takes the Plus up to 270. The fun-to-drive factor should be raised with a seven-speed DSG transmission, and handling mastery will come courtesy of a Haldex all-wheel-drive system.

The capstone: to help everyone get over the current and rather underwhelming R32, the hottest hotness is supposed to come in 2010 in the form of an R42. Swapping the current V6 for a 2.5-liter, turbocharged 5-cylinder that it will share with Audi's TT-RS and RS3, the raunchy R is rumored to get a chest-hair-growing 350 hp. If Auto Motor und Sport are to be believed, it will start rolling out of factories in November of 2009 at an undisclosed price.

Gallery: 2009 Volkswagen GTI MK VI

[Source: Auto Motor Sport via Motor Authority]

Rumormill: Volkswagen working on GTI 'Plus', GTD, and R42 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Sep 2008 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Officially Official: 2010 Volkswagen GTI MK VI

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click above for high-res gallery of Volkswagen Golf GT MkVI

We already saw the first images of the new MK VI Volkswagen GTI and we now have them in all their high-res glory courtesy of VW's German media site. As with the standard version of the Golf and the Scirocco, VW is abandoning the huge Audi-like grille of recent models in favor of something more subdued. The new GTI also harkens back to the original GTI of the late 1970s with its red-bordered grille. Under the hood, the new GTI gets the latest edition of the corporate 2.0L TFSI four cylinder cranking out 210 hp and a reasonably healthy 207 lb-ft of torque at just 1,800 rpm. The electronically controlled limited-slip XDS differential will help guide that torque to the wheel with the most grip and hopefully manage torque steer as well. The GTI is expected to hit 62 mph from a standing start in 7.2 seconds with a combined fuel efficiency on the EU cycle of 31.4 mpg. VW will start adding to the GTI's cumulative tally of 1.7 million units sold next spring in Europe and in the U.S. during the summer of 2009, while the regular Golf VI will hit our shores as the new Rabbit in the fall of 2009.

Gallery: 2009 Volkswagen GTI MK VI

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2010 Volkswagen GTI MK VI

Officially Official: 2010 Volkswagen GTI MK VI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

BREAKING: First images of 2009 Volkwagen GTI MkVI surface

Dan Roth — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 23:29:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Etc., Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Click above for gallery of Volkswagen Golf GT MkVI

Since the GTI got its groove back with the MkV, fans of the original couple generations rejoiced. We're on the edge of our collective seats waiting for the official release of the MkVI version, and some images have found their way onto the internet tonight. Taking some inspiration from the awesome GTI W12 that attended Wörthersee, the front airdam echoes that car's wide maw. Foglamps are pushed out to the far corners to emphasize width, and out back the tailpipes follow suit. The look is fantastic in the refrigerator white the photo car is wearing; special but understated. Inside, the de rigeur plaid upholstery is in place, and things are spiffed up by metal accents and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.

Underhood is a 207-hp TFSI engine, and the car comes with an electronic limited-slip differential called XDS and the Scirocco's adaptive chassis. Of course, DSG is available for snapping off quick gearchanges with no fuss. When you've got a good thing, why mess with success? We dig, and it'll be available in Spring, at which point we'll certainly bring you our driving impressions.

Gallery: Volkswagen Golf GT MkVI

[Source: evo via Carscoop]

BREAKING: First images of 2009 Volkwagen GTI MkVI surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 23:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments