WHILE THE 2010 Volkswagen Golf GTI is still some time off, Volkswagen’s diesel performer, the 2009 Volkswagen Golf GTD, has landed in German showrooms today, making it the fourth offering in the Golf VI lineup.
The GTD blends the looks and chassis of the Golf GTI with the thirst of a Polo. Don’t let the fuel miser tag fool you though; with 125kW (170hp) and 352Nm (258lb-ft) under foot, the Golf GTD should be a proper pocket-rocket.
The Golf GTD is capable of dispatching the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.1 seconds and tops out at a respectable 222km/h, yet manages to consume just 5.3 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres when driven sedately.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with Volkswagen’s famous six-speed DSG available as an option. Sport suspension and 17-inch rims also come as standard.
Inside the cabin, top-spec sports seats, a three-spoke flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and leather accents throughout are just a few of the standard features.
Volkswagen Group Australia has confirmed to TMR that it is considering adding the GTD to its lineup, but it’s still too early to say which way the company will go.
Volkswagen has no plans to offer the car in the US, but with Australia’s growing acceptance of diesel fuel, the odds for the GTD down under would seem about even.
