New 2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI spied for the first time

The next-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI has been caught on camera sporting heavy camouflage, ahead of its launch in 2020

This is our first look at the next-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI. It will reach the UK market at the end of next year, 12 months after the arrival of the standard model. 

Like all Golf GTIs, this Mk8 model has undergone a substantial cosmetic overhaul with a more aggressive body kit, a new boot spoiler and larger chromed exhaust tips. Following tradition, the new GTI’s cockpit should feature a pair of heavily bolstered tartan sports seats, a chunky sports steering wheel and a set of aluminium pedals.

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The standard Golf’s new infotainment system and digital gauge cluster will be reconfigured to suit the needs of the performance variant, with a range of new menus and chassis control options. Volkswagen’s planned array of “24/7” connectivity features will also be transferred into the hot hatch version.

This Golf GTI mule features a lower ride height and larger disc brakes than our previously spied prototypes. Like the current model, an electronic locking differential will be standard, while adaptive dampers and Volkswagen’s Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) system will likely be offered as optional extras.

We expect the new Golf GTI will be powered by a new turbocharged petrol engine producing around 290bhp and 380Nm of torque. These performance figures are similar to the outgoing Golf TCR and would provide Volkswagen with a more competitive rival for the Honda Civic Type R and the Renault Megane RS. 

Like the current GTI, the engine will feed power to the front wheels via either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

Later down the line, Volkswagen will introduce an even more powerful, four-wheel-drive Golf R variant with up to 350bhp. The engine will be mated to a dual-clutch gearbox and a four-wheel-drive system.

Are you excited for the new Volkswagen Golf GTI? Let us know in the comments below…

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