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Let's skip to the conclusion. There are two versions, both with a "P".
One is for "peanut-brains", the other is the Performance version.
If you want to know what that's about, you'll just have to watch the video.
The Golf GTI is and is not the benchmark in its class.
It's good to know that Volkswagen doesn't join the hp-race.
The Focus ST and Renault MŽgane both exceed 247 hp.
The Opel Astra OPC has 276 hp.
Volkswagen takes it easy with 217 hp, which is plenty.
It's sufficient, because 0-62 mph is done in 6.5 secs.
Top speed depends on whether you have the DSG or manual.
It'll be at least 152 mph.
The Performance version gives 10 hp extra, which isn't much.
You get better brakes, which is very important in a fast car.
Especially if you're really going to use it.
Most important and fun is the differential lock.
No XDS crap, which is an electronic diff with the same function as ESP.
Just a decent plate diff. It blocks for 100%, controlled electronically.
There's some torque factoring when it blocks.
It's great if you use the car for what it's meant to do.
You can hit the gas sooner than you're used to.
The fun thing which happens next: ...
a little bit of wheel spin on the inside, after which the diff blocks.
You'll be launched out of the corner. Fantastic!
It really makes me happy. Seriously. Well done, Volkswagen.
Some things make me feel--
They've put checkered fabric on the seats.
The previous one was called "Jacky". We sat on Jacky.
The new gen's is called "Carl".
Two guys in a car, Patrick and I, which is suspicious, ...
are sitting on Carl.
The Performance version with 10 hp extra sprints 0.1 secs faster.
With a manual transmission it'll go 155 mph; 154 mph with a DSG.
It's quick enough.
The steering is direct, doing 2.1 rotations left to right.
It reminds me of the Alfa 156, which also had a responsive steering wheel.
You may think the Golf's exterior is boring, which it is.
However, the GTI has the extra work done to make it more fun.
LED tail lights, standard Bi-Xenon--
The red lining in the grill is extended into the headlights, ...
which looks great.
I think the picture is complete.
It's a finished car, so I understand why a lot of people want it.
The sound is more intense in Sports mode, but it's still a 4-cylinder.
It's not spectacular, but it's inspirational and all we'll get.
Bigger engines in hot hatches is not done, especially in this price range.
Speaking of which: 33,290 euros, but it may be 400 euros more after 06/01.
That's affordable.
The DSG costs 2,500 euros extra, but 70% of the buyers gets one.
Clearly they think it's pleasant. It is a nice transmission, of course.
The Performance package, or I should say GTI Performance, ...
is 1,500 euros extra.
That's not a good deal for 10 hp extra, but for 1,500 euros ...
you'll also get better brakes and the diff lock.
Well... If you like driving, you should go for it.
If you drive it on the limit, thrashing it around with full throttle ...
and the diff kicks in, the front can step out.
It's no traditional understeer, making a stupid slide, ...
but a kind of jump. You should be aware of this.
A diff lock will be great, especially in the rain, ...
but you should know there is a limit.
Just like a video; suddenly you've reached the end.
Subs - Maru
Forever friends. Forever friends.