The New Volkswagen Golf GTD is the GTI of Diesels

We don’t often think of diesel engines as being performance powerhouses, but Volkswagen has always been an exception to this rule. Continuing a tradition that goes back over 30 years, the new Volkswagen Golf GTD is a diesel version of the hot hatchback known as the GTI.

Similar to the 1982 Golf GTD, the new one includes the styling cues and sportier chassis of  a GTI, but this time with a diesel engine. The diesel engine is a 2.0 litr turbocharged common rail model producing 141 HP and 280 ft-lbs of torque (380 Newton-metres) from 1,750 RPM. The transmission options include a six-speed manual, or a six-speed dual clutch DSG. There was no mention an automatic option.

Four-cylinder engines aren’t exactly known for their torque, but the 2.0 liter turbodiesel in the Volkswagen Golf GTD provides a whole lotta torque, which should make for a very spirited ride. Acceleration from 0 to 60 MPH is estimated to take 7.5 seconds, and it can attain a top speed of 229 kph or 142 mph.

With the manual transmission, the GTD achieves a fuel efficiency of 4.2 litres per 100 km, or about 56 mpg on the U.S. testing cycling. Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of 109 grams per km, and 122 grams per km for the DSG transmission. There aren’t many cars that can offer nearly 300 ft-lbs of torque, and gas mileage that exceeds the Toyota Prius.

Exterior features include a honeycomb grille and bumper design reminiscent of that of GTI vehicles, smoked LED rear lights with LED license plate illumination, chrome dual tailpipes, 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/45 tires, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a large roof spoiler. The interior is equipped with tartan sports seats, a black headliner, flat-bottom sports steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, plus a GTD-specific gear lever, trim strips and instrument cluster.

In Europe, the Golf GTD VII should start its sales after its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March. It will be priced at €29,350 (US$38,700). No word on if Volkswagen plans to bring the GTD to America, though the recent surge of interest in diesel vehicles could convince Vdub that this is one hot diesel hatchback worth importing.

Source: Volkswagen