Volkswagen has lifted the veil off of the much-awaited seventh-generation GTI at the Paris Motor Show.
Like its redesigned Golf sibling, the new-generation GTI is an exercise in design evolution, not revolution. Details include a honeycomb grille, an aggressive lower front fascia and a single red trim strip that extends across the grille into the headlights. Around back, twin tailpipes and a modest diffuser hint at the car’s sporting intentions.
The next GTI is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is equipped with direct injection. In stock form it makes 220 horsepower but an available performance package bumps that power output to 230. Â Both models come standard with a six-speed manual transmission but a six-speed dual-clutch unit is available for an extra cost.
The performance package also adds beefier brakes with model-specific calipers and a locking differential up front.
The GTI that debuted in Paris is officially billed as a concept but nothing beyond minor detail changes are expected for the production variant. Â Expect the final version of the car to greet the public for the first time in Geneva next March.
Live images by Ronan Glon.
