When put aside to the standard Golf VI models, the 2009 GTI manages to stand out thanks to the new headlight clusters, a distinct front bumper with repositioned fog lights, a larger roof spoiler and a new rear bumper that integrates dual exhaust pipes that have been moved to the far corners of the car.
Inside, owners of the previous Golf GTI will feel right at home as with the exception of a few parts that were pinched from the Passat CC, the overall styling of the fifth-generation model has been retained on the new GTI. The most unique features on the car are the black-and-white checkered tweed bucket seats and the sporty, flat-bottomed steering wheel.
Under the bonnet, the new GTI gets a slightly more powerful latest generation turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI engine that delivers an output of 210HP, up from 200HP and a maximum torque figure of 280 Nm or 207-lbs/ft at 1.800 rpm (same as the previous GTI).
Hooked up to a six-speed manual gearbox or optionally, a dual clutch DSG semi-auto gearbox, the 2009 Golf GTI accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h (62mph) in 7.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 239 km/h or 148 mph. For the record, the outgoing 200HP GTI features the same 0-100 km/h sprint time and a maximum speed of 235 km/h or 146 mph.
In terms of fuel consumption, the new GTI returns an average of 31.4 mpg or 7.5 lt/100km which is slightly better than the GTI V’s 29.4 mpg or 8.0 lt/100 km. Sales of the Golf GTI VI are expected to begin in