Factory code: 1K
The success story of the three magic letters enters its sixth round in 2009: the new Golf GTI is available to order from March and, like its predecessor, is based on the PQ35 platform. The GTI remains a fully practical all-round sports car but has been comprehensively refined in terms of technology and appearance.
Under the bonnet is now a 155 kW (210 PS) two-litre TSI engine. Although the performance and displacement figures suggest a further development of the 200 PS engine, this is a new power unit from the second development cycle of the "EA888" engine generation. The engine, which has been optimised for transverse installation, complies with the Euro 5 emissions standard and features modified pistons and piston rings, a regulated oil pump, a new vacuum pump, a new high-pressure fuel pump, and a new air mass sensor.
In terms of dynamics, the sixth GTI generation is a revelation: the maximum torque of 280 Newton metres is already available at 1,700 rpm. And it remains constant up to 5,200 rpm. The maximum power output of the 9.6:1 multi-valve four-cylinder engine is achieved at speeds between 5,300 and 6,200 rpm. The resulting performance figures are worthy of a sports car: it sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. The new VW Golf VI GTI can cover 1,000 metres in 27.3 seconds. Its elasticity is just as impressive: the Golf GTI accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear in 7.5 seconds. And even in sixth gear, it takes only 9.5 seconds. The GTI only runs out of steam at 240 kilometres per hour.
Compared to the standard VW Golf VI, the standard sports suspension is lowered by 22 millimetres at the front and 15 millimetres at the rear. The springs, dampers and rear stabiliser have been retuned. An innovative multi-link rear axle and a stable braking system complete the sporty setup. A special highlight is the standard electronic cross-axle differential lock (XDS). It ensures noticeably better traction and handling. The dynamic chassis control DCC is available as an option for the first time.
