Volkswagen’s all-new 2020 Golf GTI model will be
“cool as hell”. Just how cool, one might ask? Well, here is our
first indicator, courtesy of this recently-spotted prototype. While the
camouflage is at this point redundant for the MK8 Golf, the GTI version is
however hiding a few extra bits giving it a more sporty appearance.
It clearly features more aggressive-looking spoilers
with larger intakes, larger (and wider) wheels, chunkier side skirts and of
course a dual exhaust setup with a pipe on each side – just like on the current
generation model. Inside, the all-new Golf GTI will build on what we’ve already seen
inside Mk8 prototypes. Specifically, it will feature the same digital
instrument cluster, the same infotainment display, rectangular air vents and an
overall driver-oriented dashboard design. However, this being the GTI, it will
surely also come with aluminum bits, plus contrast stitching on the steering
wheel, gear lever and seats.
As for what to expect in terms of performance, the
next gen GTI will likely keep the current model’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo
petrol unit, but tweaked to produce a bit more power, possibly around 252 HP in base spec. There were rumors of a mild-hybrid powertrain at one
point, but current VW Group chairman Herbert Diess reportedly decided against that
plan of action.
That same report also talked about active dampers
for the new GTI, which will ride on a reworked MQB platform. With the Mk8 Golf expected to be
unveiled this summer, followed by a public debut in Frankfurt this September,
the GTI version will most likely break cover sometime next year.
