New Volkswagen Golf GTI revealed

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is one of Australia’s favourite performance cars combining kart-like handling with everyday liveability. And the new version adds even more.

2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Volkswagen has revealed details of its new Golf GTI ahead of its official debut at the Geneva motor show next week.

The popular hot hatch, which is due in Australia later this year, gets styling upgrades and improved tech.

The new GTI has the same engine and performance as the outgoing version.

Don’t go looking for added performance — the new GTI carries over the familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder (180kW/370Nm) from the current version.

The power is down on a lot of its competitors but the all-rounder fits under the power-to-weight P-plate restrictions enforced in some states.

The transmission options are six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic driving the front wheels. However, Australia is unlikely to get the manual version.

The new GTI gets a few styling upgrades.

The GTI will get Comfort, Eco and Sport driving modes. Anticipated hotter versions are tipped to build on the 213kW/380Nm outputs of the run-out Golf GTI TCR.

The new hatch’s interior comes in for a serious makeover, starting with two huge screens —. 10.25-inch digital instrument display and 10-inch infotainment screen.

For added protection, there is a wide range of active safety tech such as lane keep assist and autonomous emergency braking.

The updates in the cabin bring major leaps in tech.

The styling remains consistent with the Golf’s long-term shape with new bumpers, roof spoiler and diffuser setting it apart.

The new GTI is expected to cost about $50,000 (plus on-roads) when it arrives in Australia, at no great premium over the discounted $48,490 drive-away price of the current model.

Full Australian details will be revealed closer to its launch date.

Originally published as New Volkswagen Golf GTI revealed