In an attempt to get back to its no-frills roots, VW plans to build a stripped version of the fifth-generation GTI
with a reduced mass and up to 230-hp. Weight will reportedly be trimmed from the doors, hood and hatch, and air
conditioning and electric windows will be eschewed as well since they are non-essential unless you are a lazy Death
Valley resident. The standard 200-hp 2.0 liter FSI turbo engine will be massaged to make the extra power, as opposed to
resorting to a larger and heavier VR6 plant. According to VW king Bernd Pischetsrieder, the vehicle will be available
(at least in Europe) in early 2006.
Note: I have no idea why this story wasn’t picked up when the news was first released a week ago. I apologize for the
delay. But trust me, I’m just as excited as you are. You are excited, aren’t you?