Volkswagen is bringing the iconic Golf GTI to India with online bookings starting May 5. With only 250 units available initially, the 265 hp hot hatch combines everyday practicality with thrilling performance.
Following the recent debut of the Tiguan R Line, Volkswagen India is gearing up to introduce its globally renowned performance hatchback, the Golf GTI, in the Indian market. Set to launch in limited numbers, online bookings for the Golf GTI will commence on May 5 via the official Volkswagen India website.
Volkswagen has allocated only 250 units in the first batch. Given its popularity and cult status globally, the booking slots are expected to fill up quickly.
Under the hood, the Golf GTI is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that churns out 265 PS and 370 Nm of torque. Mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission, power is sent exclusively to the front wheels.
This high-performance hatch can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, with the top speed electronically limited to 250 km/h.
To provide an engaging driving experience, the GTI comes equipped with:
Electronically controlled front axle differential lock
Progressive steering
These features enhance cornering stability and driver confidence on both highways and winding roads.
The Mini Cooper S, one of GTI’s main competitors in India, houses a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing 204 hp and 300 Nm. It is coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and also features a front-wheel-drive setup.
The Mini does 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and has a top speed of 242 km/h. However, its two-door configuration may limit its appeal to a broader audience. The Cooper S currently retails at a starting price of Rs 44.90 lakh in India.
This marks Volkswagen's second GTI entry into the Indian market, following the Polo GTI launched in 2016. That model, though sporty, had limited success due to its three-door body style and premium pricing.
The Golf GTI, in contrast, promises better market potential thanks to its versatility and superior power figures. The previous Polo GTI was powered by a 1.8-litre turbo petrol engine, producing 192 PS and 250 Nm.
The Golf GTI brings a sporty yet premium aesthetic with elements like:
Sharp LED headlamps
Full-width LED light strip
Illuminated Volkswagen logo
Aggressive bumper with five-piece lighting
X-shaped fog lamps
18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
Twin chrome exhaust outlets
GTI badging in red
Volkswagen Golf GTI Colour Options
Customers in India can choose from:
Grenadilla Black Metallic
Oryx White Premium Mother-of-Pearl Black
Moonstone Grey Black
Kings Red Premium Metallic Black
The Golf GTI’s cabin comes equipped with:
12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
Wireless charging
7-speaker audio system
Voice command functionality
Scalepaper Plaid seats with red detailing
30-colour ambient lighting
Leather-wrapped sports steering wheel with paddle shifters
Panoramic sunroof
3-zone automatic climate control
Rear AC vents
Keyless start
The hot hatch is well-equipped on the safety front with features such as:
7 airbags
Adaptive cruise control
Lane assist
Front assist
Rearview camera
Park distance control
With the Golf GTI, Volkswagen is looking to revive the GTI badge in India, this time with a more practical and powerful package. From its limited-unit exclusivity and strong performance to a tech-loaded, premium cabin, the Golf GTI could become a favorite among hot hatch enthusiasts.
As bookings open on May 5, potential buyers will need to act fast to secure one of the 250 units in the first allocation.