A 'GTD' model first appeared back in early 80's- and Volkswagen says they've now perfected the concept. Under the hood, engineers have specified a 170 horsepower engine that's mated optionally to a dual-clutch transmission. It's capable of achieving just 5.6 L/ 100km in the fuel consumption department while delivering zippy performance.
Capitalizing on the styling of the next-generation Golf, the GTD is also quite a looker- both inside and out. Usually, cars with diesel engines aren't the most exciting things on four wheels- but if anyone's going to change that perception, it's the Germans. Have you seen the R8 V12 TDI?
If your brain still equates the idea of a diesel-powered performance car with automotive blasphemy, consider that the diesel engine is tremendously torquey, typically turbocharged, and tough, too.
Because of these attributes, it's incredibly easy to make massive power from most diesel engines with simple tuning in the factory or aftermarket. Visit your local drag-strip on a weekend, and you'll probably see a Duramax, Power-Stroke or Cummins powered pickup laying the smack down on many a muscle-car.
What about the sound? Sure- most associate the acoustic quality of a diesel engine with a washing machine full of wrenches, but VW says that a unique 'sound generator' will make this diesel engine sound pleasing.
No word yet on market availability. As is typical with cool overseas models, its best for North Americans not to hold their breath.
Reaction for the press release:
Volkswagen launches the Golf GTD in Europe
photo:Volkswagen
Capitalizing on the styling of the next-generation Golf, the GTD is also quite a looker- both inside and out. Usually, cars with diesel engines aren't the most exciting things on four wheels- but if anyone's going to change that perception, it's the Germans. Have you seen the R8 V12 TDI?
If your brain still equates the idea of a diesel-powered performance car with automotive blasphemy, consider that the diesel engine is tremendously torquey, typically turbocharged, and tough, too.
Because of these attributes, it's incredibly easy to make massive power from most diesel engines with simple tuning in the factory or aftermarket. Visit your local drag-strip on a weekend, and you'll probably see a Duramax, Power-Stroke or Cummins powered pickup laying the smack down on many a muscle-car.
What about the sound? Sure- most associate the acoustic quality of a diesel engine with a washing machine full of wrenches, but VW says that a unique 'sound generator' will make this diesel engine sound pleasing.
No word yet on market availability. As is typical with cool overseas models, its best for North Americans not to hold their breath.
Reaction for the press release:
Volkswagen launches the Golf GTD in Europe
photo:Volkswagen