The GTi Special Edition

Also read 25 years of the Golf GTi!

The Golf GTi family has a new addition. To mark the 25th birthday of the Golf GTi, Volkswagen is launching the Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp). This is a special model that will only be produced in a limited number. All other GTi models are unaffected and will remain in the range.

Bearing the technically precise designation 'Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp)', this is a GTi like none before - with a beefy 1.8-liter turbocharged engine, awesome 18-inch BBS alloy wheels, special Recaro sports seats and a great many more technical details which make this special model really special - a new highlight in the proud history of the GTi, a history that now spans four generations. With perforated leather and red stitching, the steering wheel, handbrake lever and gearstick of the 2001 GTi 132 kW (180 bhp) are reminiscent of the first GTi in 1976.

The 25 years special edition Golf GTi

With its striking appearance, the special model Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp) is a real eye-opener. The front and rear bumpers have been clearly modified from the standard model. Equally grandiose are the 7.5-inch-wide, 18-inch BBS alloy wheels with 225/40 R18 tires The typical four-spoke design gives an unobstructed view of generously dimensioned disc brakes on the front and rear axles, hugged by red brake callipers. The stately front and rear wheels are visually connected by conspicuously widened sills. Together with the body elements of the rear spoiler and rear apron in the same color as the vehicle, the Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp) gives a powerful, sporty overall impression, an image that is rounded off by the prominent chrome-plated tailpipe with a substantial 90 mm (3.5 inch) diameter.

A love of detail can also be seen in other areas. The "GTi" logo in the front grille and on the tailgate are reminiscent of the type set used on the original GTi 25 years ago. The Golf's typical twin headlights with clear glass optics are accentuated by a sporty black surround. The gas-filled struts on the bonnet and tailgate glitter stylishly in silvery aluminium. Rational - the elegant wheels are safeguarded against tampering by unauthorised persons with anti-theft wheel bolts.

The name 'Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp)' is borrowed from its heart - the 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine whose state-of-the-art technology makes it an object of interest. A lightweight alloy cylinder head, two overhead camshafts, five valves per cylinder, exhaust gas turbocharger with charge air cooling, electronically controlled independent fuel injection and a mapped, distributorless ignition system. The engine, installed in a Volkswagen for the first time, not only impresses with its power (132 kW / 180 bhp at 5 500 rpm), but also with its outstanding torque of 235 Nm (173 lb/ft of torque) in the wide speed range between 1,950 and 5,000 rpm.

Such power demands adequate transmission: The Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp) is equipped as standard with a harmoniously tuned, driver-friendly 6-speed gearbox with short, precise gear gates. Shift through the first few gears under ideal conditions and in just 7.9 seconds you will have reached a speed of 100 km/h (approx. 62 mph). The top speed is 222 km/h (approx. 139 mph).

Despite its exceptional performance data, the modern turbocharged engine proves to be remarkably economical, befitting of the times. Its overall average fuel consumption, measured by EU standards, is just 8.4 liters of premium-grade petrol per 100 km. At the same time, it proves to be extremely clean: it already meets the Euro 4 exhaust emissions standards, not due to come into force until 2005. In Germany, such environmental compatibility is rewarded with a tax reduction of DM 600.

Like all other models in the Golf range, the special model Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp) is equipped as standard with electronic stability program ESP and ABS with electronic brake pressure distribution (EBPD). Compared to the standard GTi, the sports running gear is lowered by an additional ten millimetres.

The Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp) impresses not only with its individualistic looks. Its special role is also embodied decently, yet concisely by the interior. Particularly prominent are the two ergonomically formed Recaro sports seats with black upholstery for the driver and front-seat passenger. Like the outer rear seats, these bear the GTi logo in brilliant red embroidery. Similarly, the silver-colored sill panel trims boldly state that they belong to a GTi. And then there are the other little reminders of the original GTi: the three-spoke steering wheel, the gearstick knob in the design of a golf ball, the gearstick gaiter and handbrake lever with perforated black leather mantle and the typical red stitching. Even the black three-point inertia reel seat belts are accentuated with a red edging.

Special model - special interior

The instrument cluster in the Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp) has been completely redesigned: round dials with a modern, aluminium look provide the driver with the information he needs - two large ones for speed and rpm, two smaller ones for coolant temperature and fuel level. In-between, there is space for the display and warning lights.

The complete interior, that is the roof lining, sun visors, door trim, the finish of window pillars and the carpets are presented in black, typical for the GTi. This is in bold contrast to the brushed aluminium decorative finishing around the center console, and the aluminum-look interior door handles and pedals.

In all other equipment fitted, the special model Golf GTi 132 kW (180 bhp) corresponds to the standard GTi. With one exception. Instead of the sliding/tilting glass sunroof, there is the "Climatronic" air conditioning system. The list of options is relatively short, limiting itself to different radio and navigation systems, the installation of a carphone and a "technology package" that includes an anti-theft alarm system, a radio remote control for the central locking and a multi-function display.

Just like the original GTi, the special model is only available with two doors and will only come in the colors tornado red, reflex silver or black magic.