As for the GTI's exterior appearance, a pallet of ten colors, limited to white, red, blacks, grays and blues, will be available. A larger 18-inch version of the same Imola wheels will also be optional.
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| VW of North America thinks there is still life left in the current Golf/GTI, and hasn't announced when the Mk V will debut here. (Photo: Volkswagen Canada) |
Finalization on pricing of options along with the specifications sheet will be completed and made available towards the end of September, according to Volkswagen, nearing the car's introduction. The first vehicles will be delivered to European showrooms this November with a price expected to be "under 25,000" (the equivalent of $40,000 CAD). Keep in mind that cars in general, and compact models specifically, are priced much higher in Europe than in Canada, which offers some of the lowest prices for new cars than anywhere else in the world. The current GTI starts at just over $26,000 and stretches to just over $33,000.
So when can North American enthusiasts expect the next-generation GTI? It looks as if we'll have to play the waiting game, with VW of North America still believing its current Golf/GTI hasn't reached its expiry date. Model year 2006 seems a realistic forecast.
Specifications:
- Price Range (estimated MSRP): $27,000 - $35,000
- Body Type: 3-door hatchback
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Engine: 200-hp, 207 lb-ft of torque, 2.0-L, 20-valve, DOHC, turbocharged I-4
- Optional Engine (estimated: 240-hp, 236 lb-ft of torque, 3.2-L, 30-valve, DOHC, V6
- Transmission: 6-spd man
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EDS
- Curb Weight: N/A
- Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 9.9 / 7.0 L/100 km
- Direct Competitors: Acura RSX, Chrysler Neon R/T, Ford SVT Focus, Hyundai Tiburon, MazdaSpeed Protegé, Mini Cooper S, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart/EVO/Eclipse, Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, Subaru Impreza/WRX
- Web Site: www.vw.ca