Volkswagen has always unveiled some truly special GTI concepts at the annual Worthersee GTI meet, and this year is no different.
Now in its 37th instalment, the annual meet in Southern Austria draws GTI fans from around the globe, to pay homage to the iconic hot hatch. This year, Volkswagen took the opportunity to showcase their new Golf GTI TCR – a car that’s inspired by Volkswagen’s GTI Touring Car. While this is a "near production ready" concept, it is expected to go on sale before the end of 2018.
It might not be the most powerful GTI ever built - that honour is held by the 228kw GTI Clubsport S - but the GTI TCR is certainly the fastest. Whereas the limited edition GTI Clubsport S maxes out at 260kph, the GTI TCR powers on to 264kph - making it the fastest Golf GTI in history.
Powering the GTI TCR is Volkswagen’s fabled EA888 2.0 TSI motor, which in this application produces 213kw and 370nm, and is attached exclusively to a 7-speed DSG. Volkswagen haven’t released any acceleration times, but it should be significantly quicker than the GTI Performance.
In standard trim, the GTI TCR rides on 18-inch wheels and a 250kph top speed. However, tick the optional performance package and you get 20mm lower adaptive dampers and forged 19-inch wheels. All GTI TCRs feature an Akrapovic exhaust system, the GTI Performance’s limited-slip differential, as well as an upgraded brake system all round.
The bodywork has also been subtly revised too, with an extended front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser. Of the five exterior colours, three - red, white and the TCR-exclusive ‘Pure Grey’ - are available with a contrasting black roof, or alternatively there’s a full-body black or pearl white. Inside the car are a set of microfibre sports seats and contrast colour ‘Flash Red’ centre sections.
Volkswagen plans to introduce the production-ready model by the end of the year.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR cost in South Africa?
Volkswagen hasn't officially announced South African pricing for the GTI TCR yet, but expect it to slot in around R650,000 to R700,000 when it arrives, positioning it above the standard GTI Performance but below the limited Clubsport variants.
Q: Is the Golf GTI TCR worth buying over a regular GTI?
If you want the fastest Golf GTI ever made and don't mind paying a premium for exclusivity, then yes, the GTI TCR's 264kph top speed and track-focused upgrades make it worthwhile for serious enthusiasts.
Q: How much power does the Golf GTI TCR make?
The GTI TCR produces 213kW and 370Nm from its EA888 2.0 TSI engine, making it more powerful than the standard GTI Performance but slightly less than the 228kW Clubsport S.
Q: When will the Volkswagen GTI TCR be available in South Africa?
Volkswagen plans to start production before the end of 2018, so expect the GTI TCR to reach South African shores sometime in early 2019, likely as a limited production run.
Q: What makes the GTI TCR different from other Golf GTIs?
The GTI TCR features unique aerodynamic bodywork, Akrapovic exhaust, adaptive dampers, limited-slip differential, upgraded brakes, and is the fastest Golf GTI ever with a 264kph top speed.
Should You Buy It?
The Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR is a brilliant send-off for the current Golf generation, but at an expected R650,000 plus, it's strictly for GTI purists who want bragging rights to the fastest Golf ever made. If you're after maximum bang for buck, the standard GTI Performance at around R550,000 delivers 90% of the thrills for significantly less cash. However, if you've got the budget and want something truly special that'll hold its value, the GTI TCR's limited production numbers and track-bred credentials make it a smart buy. Just remember, with only DSG available, manual gearbox die-hards need not apply.
