For a front-wheel
drive hot hatch, the Golf GTI TCR boasts more than sufficient power as its
2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder produces 290 PS. That’s
45 PS ore than the regular GTI, and only 10 PS (10 hp / 7 kW)
less than the AWD Golf R. So, even though there are faster FWD hatches out
there, like the Honda Civic Type R and Renault Megane RS Trophy, to name but
two, it’s still among the best.
However, this
wasn’t enough for one owner, who turned to ABT Sportsline to make their ride
more agile. The tuner responded to the challenge by fitting their engine
control unit, boosting the power to 340 PS and raising torque
by 50 Nm, to 430 Nm.
With the upgrades
up and running, the tuner specialized in modifying VW Group vehicles claims
that 0-100 km/h takes 5.4 seconds, 0.2 seconds quicker than before.
This brings it very close to the Golf R, which needs a little over 5 seconds
with the six-speed manual ‘box, or just under 5 with the DSG. Top speed has
also been increased slightly, from 260 km/h to 265 km/h.
Mind you, ABT’s
work didn’t stop here, as they have also updated the suspension. Customers can
choose between aftermarket springs or a height-adjustable kit, and they can
also get the anti-roll bars combined with the standard suspension. As a final
touch, the Golf GTI TCR, as well as other versions of VW’s iconic hot hatch,
can be equipped with different wheels – this particular car, for example,
sports the tuner’s 20-inch GR rims in glossy black with a diamond-machined rim
flange.
