THE establishment of Volkswagen Philippines in the country created anticipation among enthusiasts for the arrival of the Golf GTI.
When it was officially unveiled on February 26 at the Volkswagen Showroom in Bonifacio Global City, Volkswagen Philippines President and CEO John Phillip “JP” Orbeta could not contain his enthusiasm. “I am excited and proud to bring on the Golf GTI, which is the perfect car for Filipinos who seek function, performance and excitement. The Golf GTI is indeed a sports car with true style and performance,” he shared. The Golf has been around since 1974, appearing in different variations in each generation with more than 29 million built by 2012 and numerous global awards under its belt.
The seventh-generation embodies a blend of stylish proportions, technological superiority and convincing execution.
Notable exterior aesthetics are the 18-inch Austin alloy wheels, front grille with red straight line accent expanding to the headlamps with the signature VW and GTI emblem, Daytime Running Lights (DRL) located in the front bumper, and dual tailpipes that connote sportiness.
Equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 220 ps and impressive 350 Nm of torque, the vehicle delivers power to the wheels via a six-speed dual shift gear automatic transmission. What captured the attention of this writer was the torque figure. Achieving maximum torque early on in the RPM range, specifically at 1,500 rpm, will theoretically put the Golf at ease when driving uphill, hauling heavy loads and overtaking.
The cockpit design gives the impression of combined technology and precision. A sporty, three-spoke steering wheel accentuated with red stitches, paddle shifters and audio controls is standard.
The analog gauges sit perfectly visible through the steering wheel and are highlighted with chrome rings. GTI premium sport seats with “Clark” material enwrap occupants in a perfect hug, while stainless steel pedals, scuff plates and trim are functional and captivating to the eyes. The keyless-go entry/exit with push start, interior ambient lighting and climatronic two-zone air-conditioning system make the interior more than liveable.
Safety features such as Electronic Stab, Electronic Differential Lock with XDS plus technology and engine drag torque control are designed to deliver complete control in terms of handling and traction amid extreme changes in driving conditions.
Volkswagen Philippines offered a supervised test-drive in a controlled environment on the street in front of the showroom.
The objective was to showcase the performance aspects of the car. During the activity, the instruction was to launch at WOT (Wide Open Throttle), in other words, with the gas pedal pressed to the floor. The acceleration was so powerful that my instincts almost prompted me to step on the brake pedal right away.
Reaching the marker for braking point, the Golf’s electronic safety features worked together so well that sudden braking was free of any anomalies. Located halfway through the course were pylons meant to mimic turns, corners and even a hairpin, where the Golf demonstrated ease in control every time I turned the wheel thanks to the responsive electronic power steering. Body roll was also kept to a minimum. That brief encounter with the Golf GTI enlightened this writer as to why it is dubbed as the “Hot Hatch.”
The all new Volkswagen Golf GTI is being offered at P2.29 million and there are five available colors: Oryx White Pearl, Tornado Red, Night Blue, Limestone Grey and Deep Black Pearl.
Randy S. Peregrino
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino