New GTI for preview

29/10/04: by Brian Byrne — The fifth generation of the nameplate that is the epitome of 'hot hatch' will be available for test in Irish VW showrooms during November, and deliveries of Golf GTI cars should happen towards the end of January or early February.

The new GTi is powered by a 200hp 2-litre turbocharged direct fuel injection engine. In addition to being powerful, the full torque is available from 1800rpm all the way to 5000rpm.

The suspension has been lowered, springs are stiffer, and there's a thicker anti-roll bar. The electro-mechanical steering has also been retuned to suit the GTi's characteristics.

Specification includes an electronic stabilisation programme, 2-zone climate control, sport seats and automatic wipers.

Visually the GTI has its own specific black honeycomb grille rimmed in red, special bumpers, distinctive red brake calipers, and dual chrome exhaust pipes. There will be no 'Golf' name on the tailgate, just 'GTI'.

VW will be launching a 2-litre TDi GTI with 160hp on tap later.