The new Golf GT to be launched in Europe at the end of 2005 will close the gap between the Golf Sportline and the Golf GTI. The GT will hit the market in Europe with two engine models, each with 170 PS: The innovative 1.4 l Twincharger and the equally powerful 2.0 TDI with diesel particulate filter as standard.

The Golf GT is not just a very special Golf under the engine hood, it also looks special. The new front section with its V-shaped radiator grille in the body colour is the exclusive preserve of the new Golf GT. Air inlet openings are integrated into the front bumper, but are more understated than the GTI. In this way, the designers have clearly distinguished between the Golf, Golf GT, Golf GTI and Golf R32, thereby making it clear that the models have different power levels. There is an opening for the twin tailpipe in the rear apron. The GT is 15 millimetres lower than the standard level and its equipped with 17-inch wheels.

As well as the 1.4 l Twincharger with 125 kW/170 PS, Volkswagen is also launching the Golf GT with the most powerful diesel engine that has ever been available ex-works in a Golf, the 2.0 TDI with 125 kW/170 PS. The exceedingly frugal Golf GT 2.0 TDI is exciting to drive because it offers impressive power reserves in all situations. The direct-injection pump/nozzle turbo diesel with piezoelectric elements, four-valve technology, two overhead camshafts and a diesel particulate filter as standard develops 125 kW/170 PS at 4,000 rpm. Its torque curve reaches an imposing maximum of 350 newton metres on a plateau of 1,800 to 2,500 rpm. The performance figures for this, the most powerful Golf TDI ever, are convincing across the board. It achieves a maximum speed of 220 km/h and accelerates from stationary to 100 km/h in only 8.2 seconds; and all this with a consumption of only 5.9 l/100 km diesel.

As standard, the engine power is channelled to the front wheels through a manual six-speed gearbox. From early 2006, it will also be possible to combine these engine versions with the crisply shifting six-speed DSG direct shift gearbox. Connoisseurs will lick their lips at this, since the DSG combines the convenience of an automatic with the sporty and fuel-saving advantages of a manual. It has six forwards gears, shifts gear extremely quickly and without any interruption in traction. The DSG is the ideal gearbox particularly in combination with turbo diesel direct injection engines, and now also with the new “Twincharger”. The DSG is the first gearbox to do full justice to the consumption benefits of the innovative engine technology in spite of the automatic gearshift function – indeed, it even adds to the benefits. Like the classic Tiptronic, this gearbox can also be shifted manually using a plus/minus gearshift gate.

Externally, the Golf GT can be recognised by its modified front section that is similar to the GTI whilst nevertheless retaining its individuality. For example, the V-shape is developed but is much more understated than in the GTI. Further special optical cues include the GT logos on the front and rear as well as special alloy wheels and the visible twin tailpipe. The standard equipment of the Golf GT is based on the Trendline and includes electric front windows, electrically adjustable and heated outside mirrors, central locking with radio remote control, six airbags, headrests and three-point seat belts for all five seats, electromechanical power steering as well as ABS with electronic stability programme (ESP) and traction control (ASR).

The dynamically set-up Golf GT, whose two available 170 PS power plants enable it to achieve excellent performance, has a sports chassis lowered by 15 millimetres, 17-inch alloy wheels in the “BBSClassiX” design with 225/45 R17 tyres. The 16-inch brakes (as in the Golf GTI) combined with the brake assistant ensure that the Golf GT, both in the guise of the compressor-turbo and the most powerful TDI in the compact class, can be reined in safely.

In the interior, the Golf GT will appeal with special sports seats in the individual “Brick” design, a three-spoke leather steering wheel with GT logo and a boost pressure display in the cockpit (TSI).

Standard equipment in the Golf GT in detail (compared to Golf Trendline):

Exterior equipment:

- Radiator grille in black

- Visible twin tailpipes

- Individual bumpers

- 4 alloy wheels “BBS ClassiX”, 7 J x 17 with 225/45 R 17 tyres

- Sports chassis, 15 mm lower

- 16-inch brake system

Interior equipment:

- Three-spoke sports steering wheel with GT emblem

- Sports seats at front with individual covering

- “Black Onyx” decorative inlays

- Boost pressure display (TSI)

- Switch for winter driving programme

Notes:
All the information in this article apply to the range of models offered in Germany. There may be differences for other countries.

2006 Volkswagen Golf GT

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