The forever iconic Golf GTI, and its alternative relatives, the diesel-powered GTD and the GTE PHEV, are back on the eighth-generation Golf, giving more ways to enjoy the return of an icon on this latest generation Golf.
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| 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTD |
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| 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTE |
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| 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI |
What's the difference you may ask? Sure, they are based on the eighth-generation Golf but have been given some sporty exterior treatment and checkered seats like every past GTIs had, not to mention the same minimalist interior that the normal Golf had, which speedo boys called it worthless because of the lack of buttons of it but there are hints that will differentiate them. There are tiny red accents on the GTi, blue accents on the GTE, and grayish accents on the GTD. Simple as that.
What lies underneath are different stories for each version. Starting with the GTI, it is powered by the improved version of the EA888 2.0L TSi engine which produces 245PS of power and 370Nm. Mated to a 7-speed DSG, which is the only gearbox offered for the time being sadly, the GTI can sprint from 0-100kph in 6.2 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 250kph.
The GTD, meanwhile, is powered by a tender juicy EA288 2.0L TDi engine which produces 200PS of power and 400NM of torque, meaning it's almost a second slower than the GTi and 5kph less as well.
Lastly, the GTE's PHEV setup features a 1.5L TSi engine connected to an 85kw electric motor which produces the same amount of power as you get from the GTI but with the environmentally-conscious side to lean on thanks to its 1.6L/100km of fuel economy. Mated to a 6-speed DSG, it can go from 0-100kph in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of only 225kph. 130 when going on electrics.
Out of the three, the GTI is the fastest while the GTE is the most efficient and the GTD is the one to avoid because it's diesel, and Europeans of today are starting to shy away from the clattering burners.
On the dynamics side, since the GTI is the lightest of the three, let's put our attention to the GTI because this is the one we care for. Anyway, the new model, like the other relatives, feels so lively to drive than its predecessor while it delivers the classic formula we all love about since the very beginning. With the new Vehicle Dynamics Manager, front-axle locking diff, DCC, and progressive steering in place, it starting to show how much of a hot hatch it really is and despite all the technological breakthroughs implemented, it still remains a classic to drive. This front-wheel drive legend has a lot to live up to its name and reputation and it does it away with flying colors of the German flag.
On the pricing side, it's not what you called reasonable because the new GTI starts at 37,607 Euros while the GTD starts at 38,114 Euros and the GTE starts at a rather pricey 41,667 Euros so out of the three, the GTI is the one to buy.
So there you have it, ladies and gentlemen. With these three back in the eighth-generation Golf range, it looks like the legend is still the best to drive and although the new Golf GTi wasn't intended to take on the likes of its powerful rivals from Renault and Honda, it's still is the best hot hatch to get into the zone and break.
Enjoy these new and sporty Golf additions if you can!
Photo: Volkswagen AG
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