Volkswagen Golf GTI and GTD 2020: more sporty than ever

The new VW Golf GTI and GTD 2020 arrive with no surprises: more digital and efficient than ever, but as sporty as always.

Volkswagen presents at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show the three “GT” versions of the eighth generation of the Volkswagen Golf: the new Golf GTI, Golf GTD and the plug-in hybrid version, the Golf GTE.

Let’s remember that these versions have already reached cult status in their class, a saga that began with the Golf MK1 in 1976, followed by the first GTD in 1982, and the first plug-in hybrid GTE version in 2014.

The design of the new VW Golf GTI and GTD

Stylistically, Volkswagen follows the same approach as previous generations: the new Golf GTI and Golf GTD stand out enough from the rest of the range, but without being flashy. Highlights include the group of five LED fog lights forming an X, on either side of the wide lower air intake that doubles as the radiator grille. An LED light strip connecting the headlights has also been added, just below the line of the bonnet.

Apart from the design of the wheels, which can be up to 19 inches, and the respective GTI and GTD badges, the main difference between the petrol and turbodiesel versions lies in the exhaust outlets. The GTI features two round chrome exhaust outlets, one on each side, while the GTD has a single double outlet on the left. Both models include side skirts and a roof spoiler, as well as a rear diffuser.

VW Golf GTI 2020 image gallery

A digitalised interior

Inside, the new Golf GTI and GTD also stand out clearly by retaining hallmark features of these versions, such as the classic check pattern used on the seat upholstery, in grey and black for the GTI, and grey and red for the GTD.

One of the new signature features is the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, now with touch controls. The so-called Innovision Cockpit also arrives, which Volkswagen describes as a fusion of the top-of-the-range digital instrumentation, the 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit, and the Discover Pro multimedia system with a 10-inch screen.

It comes as standard on the GTE and as an option on the GTI and GTD, which come as standard with the basic version of the Digital Cockpit with a single screen, and the Composition multimedia system with an 8.25-inch screen.

Among the many new details, the start/stop button for starting the engine lights up red once the driver enters the car and closes the door. An “invitation” to take action…

The engines of the VW Golf GTI and VW Golf GTD

Under the bonnet of the new Volkswagen Golf GTI there are no surprises. The 2.0 turbo direct-injection engine remains one of the best in its class. Here it now delivers 245 CV as standard and a maximum torque of 370 Nm. It is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, and optionally can be fitted with the 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

As for the GTD, more of the same: why change an engine that continues to perform so well? The 2.0 TDI is rated at 200 CV with a maximum torque of 400 Nm, and is equipped with a dual SCR catalyst system and double AdBlue injection, to reduce emissions. Transmission is always via a 7-speed DSG gearbox.

For the chassis, in addition to the specific tuning of the suspensions, the Volkswagen uses for the first time the so-called Vehicle Dynamics Manager. This is a dynamic driving control system that acts both on the variable-stiffness dampers (optional) and on the XDS electronic differential. The aim is to offer a wider range between sporty behaviour and a setup more oriented towards comfort.

VW Golf GTD 2020 image gallery

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackVolkswagen Golf28 versions · from 24,450 €