This isn’t
just a rundown Mk7.5 Volkswagen Golf GTI with skinny tyres on the Nürburgring,
but the first test mule of the all-new Mk8 Golf. The hullabaloo surrounding
“Dieselgate” has not affected the development of Wolfsburg’s breadwinning
model, so the next-generation family hatchback is still on course for a
late-2019 introduction.
While the body may look identical to the current
model, look closely and you’ll notice that the wheel arches have been pushed
out slightly, and the rear bumper has also been extended to give a closer
representation of the new car’s extra length. Inside, the Active Info Display
instrument cluster has been revised with the warning lights moved from the top
to the sides of the display.
Elsewhere, the climate control switchgear has been
moved up to where the infotainment screen used to be. Given that the new
Touareg‘s air-con controls now sit above the centre air vents (top-spec models
get a 15-inch centre display that incorporates the climate controls), we’re
expecting this layout to be found on the new Golf as well. The gearlever has
also been switched to the Touareg’s electronic unit.
The new Golf will likely ride on a revised version
of the current model’s MQB architecture, with the increased use of lightweight
materials expected to provide a 50 kg weight reduction. It should also receive
a 48-volt electrical system that will open up new possibilities in terms of
powertrain technologies.
The 1.5 litre turbo TSI Evo petrol engine, which was
introduced on the Mk7.5 facelift, is set to gain a particulate filter to reduce
emissions, while the Bluemotion model’s cylinder deactivation and engine-off
coasting functions could become a standard feature on many other models. The
1.0 litre TSI three-cylinder, which replaces the 1.2 TSI, should also be
carried over.
On the diesel side, the existing 1.6 litre TDI will
reportedly be phased out in favour of a new 1.5 litre mill, while an updated
2.0 litre TDI will be offered in three power outputs. Both units will feature a
new selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, tipped to provide a 10%
reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
Bigger changes are on the way for the GTI, which is
set to gain a mild hybrid system with an integrated starter motor, in a bid to
improve performance and refinement while reducing fuel consumption and
emissions. The electric motor is expected to provide a boost function, while an
electric turbocharger will also be introduced. Sources indicate a target power
level similar to the 261 hp Golf GTI Clubsport.
Lastly, the GTE plug-in hybrid is expected to
substitute its 1.6 litre TSI engine for a naturally-aspirated version of the
1.5 litre TSI petrol to reduce costs. All models will be offered with either a
six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, as
well as a 4Motion all-wheel drive system.
Cr : Paultan
