Driven: 2020 Golf 7.5 GTI TCR
We recently got to spend time with the new Golf 7.5 GTI TCR and let’s just say that the limited edition has lived up to the hype. Of course, South Africans had to wait patiently to get their hands on one of these, as the COVID-19 pandemic did put a delay on its local release. Volkswagen has made the TCR available but getting your hands on of these may not be easy, this is because the Golf 7.5 GTI TCR will only have 300 units available. In fact, we were lucky enough to drive this one-of-a-kind GTI, and trust us when we say that the TCR badge has more than delivered.
Sportier exterior
The TCR does look quite mean on the road and that's thanks to its aero-kit which comes with matte black side mirror caps, a TCR roof spoiler, a front splitter, and a rear diffuser. This certainly gives the TCR a sportier flair and a distinctive look over the standard GTI. The TCR features matte black side mirrors and TCR honeycomb decals along the side. It comes in three colours - Pure White, Tornado Red, and Pure Grey. It will come standard in a bespoke 19-inch “Reifnitz” alloy wheel which is accompanied by a set of performance brakes nestled behind the wheels.
TCR Engine
To fully appreciate the TCR in all its glory, you must get behind the wheel. The TCR is an absolute rocket on take-off, thanks to launch control and that difference in power is certainly noticeable. Driving the TCR is a bit of guilty pleasure, and by that, we mean that it’s so much fun to drive that one cannot help but feel the need to put their foot down whenever they step in it. The TCR sticks to its classic GTI roots and gets a 2.0-litre TSI engine. What makes the TCR particularly unique is that it produces 213kW of power and 380Nm of torque which is still sent to the front-wheels and as you can imagine this makes for plenty of fun around the corners. This of course is a massive increase from the standard Golf 7 GTI that produces just 169kW. The TCR comes with VW’s smooth DSG transmission and does 0-100km/h in just 5.6-seconds.
Kind of different interior
Look the interior of the TCR is slightly different from the GTI but to most, it may look practically the same. VW has positioned the TCR as the more extreme version of the GTI, which means performance was first on the agenda over the interior changes. In fact, the only real key changes in the TCR, is its stunning new GTI TCR velour sport seats which are exceptionally comfortable and resemble the first MK1 GTI seats. The TCR does get a GTI inspired steering wheel as well as red edging seatbelts. Another cool feature inside the TCR is the unique ‘x of 300’ number that shows the consumer what number of TCR model they own out of the 300 made.
Verdict
Overall, the VW Golf 7.5 GTI TCR is an absolute joy to drive, it stays true to its GTI heritage and it certainly can adapt from being a brutal hot hatch to a comfy daily drive with plenty of space for the family. We were really surprised at just how smooth and comfortable the TCR felt and delivered its power, even more comfortable than cars more expensive than it. In fact, the only real issue we have is that they didn’t make enough TCR’s. The VW Golf 7.5 GTI TCR is priced at R669 000 and it's certainly worth the money.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2020 Golf 7.5 GTI TCR cost in South Africa?
The 2020 Golf 7.5 GTI TCR was priced at around R679,900 when it launched in South Africa, making it significantly more expensive than the standard GTI but justified by its limited production run and performance upgrades.
Q: How much power does the Golf 7.5 GTI TCR produce?
The Golf 7.5 GTI TCR produces 213kW from its 2.0-litre TSI engine, which is a substantial increase over the standard GTI's output and gives it proper hot hatch credentials.
Q: How many Golf 7.5 GTI TCR units were made for South Africa?
Volkswagen only brought 300 units of the Golf 7.5 GTI TCR to South Africa, making it an extremely rare and collectible hot hatch that's becoming increasingly difficult to find.
Q: What makes the Golf 7.5 GTI TCR different from the standard GTI?
The TCR features a comprehensive aero kit with front splitter and rear diffuser, exclusive 19-inch Reifnitz alloy wheels, performance brakes, launch control, and significantly more power than the standard GTI.
Q: Is the Golf 7.5 GTI TCR worth buying in 2024?
The Golf 7.5 GTI TCR is absolutely worth buying if you can find one, as its limited production run, exceptional performance, and TCR heritage make it a future classic that will likely appreciate in value.
Should You Buy It?
The best limited edition hot hatch under R700,000 in South Africa is definitely the 2020 Golf 7.5 GTI TCR. With only 300 units available and prices starting around R679,900 when new, this is a definite yes if you can still find one. The TCR's 213kW output, launch control, and track-focused aero package make it the ultimate Golf GTI experience. Given its rarity and the fact that the Golf 8 GTI hasn't quite captured the same magic, the TCR represents your last chance to own a proper old-school hot hatch that's only going to become more valuable. Just don't expect to find one easily, and be prepared to pay premium prices on the used market.
