The new generation Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR is coming to rule the front-wheel drive hot hatch class and perhaps try to steal some of the thunder of the Renault Megane RS Trophy-R. Spied testing in and around the Nurburgring track in Germany, it will bridge the gap between the regular Golf GTI and the upcoming all-wheel drive Golf R, retaining the FWD layout of its lesser sibling but with a stiffer suspension setup, upgraded brakes and more power.
Your guess is how
much the turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI engine will pump out, but it could be in
the region of 300 PS. What makes us say that? The fact that
the current iteration has 290 PS, whereas the Mk8 Golf GTI
comes with 245 PS. Power is likely to be channeled to the
wheels exclusively through a dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The 2021 Golf GTI TCR hasn’t been trying
to hide beneath vinyl stickers for a few months now. Even so, one has to pay
attention to the details that will visually set it apart from the regular GTI.
These will include the tweaked front bumper, updated rear diffuser and maybe
bespoke decals, wheels and interior trim.
The range-topping FWD hot hatch in
Volkswagen’s lineup seems ready for its launch, which might take place before
the end of the year, if there are no interruptions, though probably after the R
enters the arena.
