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Monday, May 14, 2007

Thinking Man's GTI? : VW Golf GT

Well, the long awaited GT is finally here, with that trick twincharger TSI 1390cc engine under its bonnet. For the ignorant, it's got a compressor-type supercharger AND a turbocharger working in tandem to deliver optimum performance.

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But don't be mistaken into thinking this is a substitute for the GTI, since the performance figures aren't too far off from its hotter brother, which coupled to its lighter weight, should produce some fireworks. The GT's kerbweight is 1293kg vs the GTI's 1347kg. Unfortunately, when push comes to shove, it's just not as focused nor as keen a drive as the GTI.
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Moreover, the alloy wheel design is a tad underwhelming and there's just not enough going on style-wise to give the GT that added oomph factor all 'hot' hatches should have. No HIDs, no moonroof are just a few of the other differences.

Brake feel is strong but if you like driving hard, you'll quickly realise this is one thirsty car. Driven on a light to moderate throttle, mixed consumption figures as good as 7.2L/100km can be achieved. With a lead foot, expect the car to return >12km/L in urban driving. You DO however get a little boost gauge that is nestled snugly in the instrument binnacle
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DSG also means one other thing: Launch Control! Like the GTI, the front wheels aren't adequate enough to cope with the amount of torque so you do wheel-spin a little in place before the car shoots off:



Fast Facts: VW Golf GT
Engine: 1390cc, 16-valves, in-line 4, twincharger
Maximum power: 170bhp at 6000rpm
Maximum torque: 240Nm at 1750-4500rpm
Transmission: 6-speed DSG
0-100km/h: 7.9 seconds
Top speed: 220km/h
LxBxH: 4204 x 1759 x 1479 mm
Wheelbase: 2578mm
Kerbweight: 1293kg
Agent: Volkswagen Group Singapore

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