Another area that the concept GTI improves upon is the interior. With relatively unsupportive buckets and just rudimentary instrumentation the ur-GTI was naked compared to modern VWs. Now bargain-basement interiors are simply unacceptable. Based upon the new Golf's cabin, VW has added details in an attempt to bring the old car's spirit back to life. As opposed to rich wood and full-grain leather, VW has gone for sportier authentic aluminum trim. Applied to the dashboard, pedals, doors and console, it rids the cabin of the typical VW 'dark ages' atmosphere. Milled and polished aluminum can also be spotted on the instrument cluster as well as the racy three-spoke flat-bottomed steering wheel. Special sporty cloth and leather seats feature heavy bolsters and integrated headrests stitched with the GTI logo.
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| The interior of the concept is a big improvement over the rudimentary designed classic GTI. (Photo: Volkwagen AG) |
Though it's just a concept, this GTI certainly has the potential to be a class champion. With more power, control, and improved dynamics there isn't any doubt that the GTI can hold its ground against its rival track demons. On the other hand, the artistic retro touches throughout the exterior and interior provide hardcore fans with modernized nostalgia. Its high quality furnishings are impressive, and in true VW fashion the GTI concept is light years ahead of the competition - many of which often struggle with cheap plastics and wide body panel gaps.
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| Although just a concept, the GTI has the potential to be a class champion. (Photo: Volkswagen AG) |
In the end the only problem lies in the fact that the new GTI is still a concept vehicle. Will it ever be put into production? What do you think? Paris '04 looks to be a good time period.