Say helllo to the Volkswagen Golf GTD – the first high-performance diesel version of the all new MkVI hatchback.
Aiming to earn a reputation as the GTI of diesels, this car’s unveiling follows closely behind the launch of the brand-new petrol-powered GTI.
Power is delivered from VW’s familiar 2.0-litre turbodiesel unit – but here it’s tweaked to produce 125kW and a substantial 350Nm of torque. Not headline figures by any means, compared to the GTI’s 155kW and 280Nm, but when you consider peak torque is available between 1750r/min and 2500r/min the in-gear acceleration should feel just as fast.
The zero to 100km/h sprint takes just 8.1 seconds – less than a second behind the GTI – while the top speed is a respectable 220km/h. Power is transmitted to the front wheels through VW’s optional six-speed DSG gearbox – a six-speed manual is standard.
But this car’s fuel-sipping nature is the real talking point. Claimed fuel economy on the combined cycle is a heady 6.3l/100km – a significant difference when compared to the GTI’s more thirsty 9.1l/100km. CO2 emissions are just as impressive at 139g/km, putting it in the UK’s £120-a-year tax band C.
With its GTD, VW is also looking to bust the myth that diesel engines can’t offer a sporty soundtrack. Engineers have fine tuned the car’s acoustics using an innovative solution.
An electromagnetic sound generator evaluates engine speed, throttle input and vehicle speed and helps to filter a pleasing engine note into the cabin, especially at lower engine speeds. A noise damping film on the windshield also helps to reduce wind and road noise – improving refinement.
The car will go into production next month and should go on sale in the UK by the end of June – prices are yet to be announced.
