For 32 years now, the Volkswagen GTI has been a staple in the car manufacturer’s fleet.
As each new mark (what they call a new generation of their cars) is released, it leaves consumers thinking ‘how could they possibly top this?’ The answer to that question seems to consistently be that VW can only go up from here, and that they will consistently find a way to improve and amaze us all with each new release, so what is it that the next mark of GTIs has in store for us? You are about to find out.
From the Outside, Not Much Has Changed
The GTI has always generally kept the classic look of the golf, and it was what was on the inside that really made the car standout from its lesser, sister car. With the Mk 7, not much has changed with the exterior.
According to a report from the Star Phoenix, there are a few light touches here and there but nothing monumentally different.
For one, the headlights have been made a light narrower and some of the traditionally round edges have been made a little less so. The optional 19-inch wheels have a web-spoke design, but the standard 18-inch allow wheels are the same five-spoke look that VW has been using since 2006, according to the Star Phoenix report.
There is just something about the outside that looks edgier about the Mk 7 even given the lack of any substantial changes to the actual design.
Inside is Pretty Tame As Well
The inside of the new Mk 7 does feature a touch screen and a dashboard that plays up the focus on that, according to Edmunds. You can expect, as you always can with a VW, high-quality materials in use on the interiors as well as a few added perks such as heated seats and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Edmunds report also claims that a significant list of add-ons can be expected with the Mk 7 and some of the highlights include a backup camera, keyless entry, and navigation system.
But Wait Until You See the Mechanics
The biggest breakthrough with this GTI is that it will be the first ever Golf to have VW’s front wheel drive MQB platform. Also, this car is slightly bigger than its predecessors. The Mk7 features a 2-liter, four-cylinder engine with direct injection and turbocharge.
It features a cool 217 horsepower and has 258 pound-feet of tourque, according to the Edmunds report. Some optional packages will allow you ramp up the horsepower to as much as 227 if you so choose.
The Mk 7 will be offered in both a two- and four-door as well as in the traditional six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. While the European models will still be manufactured in Germany, it is looking like the American-sold GTIs will be switched over to their new plant in Mexico upon the completion of the plant.
If you will be looking to trade-up for a new car and can afford to wait for the next generation of Volkswagen GTIs to hit the scene you should definitely hold out. This is going to be a big one!
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Tony has been a used car salesman for many years and likes to share his knowledge about upcoming cars with readers.