VW Golf GTI TCR headed to Australia
Australian production of the fastest official Golf GTI to date commences next month ahead of this special edition’s arrival in July.
The GTI TCR is the latest in the line of GTI special editions that began with the GTI Pirelli (Mark 5), through GTI 35th Anniversary (Mark 6) and GTI 40 Years (Mark 7, 2016).
The GTI TCR succeeds the GTI 40 Years as the most powerful production version of the original ‘hot hatch’ model line. While both emulate the 213kW of the Golf R, the 40 Years achieved this power on over-boost. In the GTI TCR this output is constantly attainable; an appreciable increase over the standard GTI’s 180kW.
The GTI TCR’s estimated 0-100km/h time is 5.7 seconds – 0.6 more rapid than the GTI 40 Years with DSG transmission and within one second of the Golf R DSG hatch’s 4.8 seconds.
Unlike the Golf R, GTI uses eschews all-wheel-drive for the lighter weight of a front differential lock. In the TCR this is augmented by a bespoke adaptive chassis control and performance front brake system. The TCR rides more firmly and 5mm lower than the standard GTI. The GTI TCR also features a distinctive exhaust note.
A six-speed version of Volkswagen’s wet clutch DSG comes with the 350Nm version of this engine tune.
The GTI TCR is available in the traditional colours of Pure White and Tornado Red, and a new colour, Pure Grey. All colours come with a black roof, distinctive honeycomb side decals and bespoke 19-inch alloys.
Interior features include Alcantara accents, black/red sports cloth upholstery, a new version of the GTI steering wheel with perforated leather at the hand positions and a red 12 o’clock marker.
Three hundred GTI TCRs will be available.
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI TCR | $51,490 |
Additional and differing specification to the GTI:
- 213kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine
- 6-speed wet-clutch DSG
- Modified exhaust
- Unique Adaptive Chassis Control, lowered 5mm
- Black mirror covers
- Honeycomb TCR decals
- Gloss black roof
- LED headlights with dynamic cornering light
- Dynamic light assist
- Sports cloth/microfleece seats
- Sports steering wheel with perforated leather and red 12 o’clock marker
- Seat belts and floor mats with red trim
- Alcantra gearshift lever and door trim inserts
| Glass panoramic sunroof | $1900 |
