The Herald (South Africa)

Golf GTI TCR revving in the wings for 2019 entrance

- Phuti Mpyane

More informatio­n on the continuing tale of Volkswagen’s most recognisab­le nameplate has emerged.

News of the Golf GTI TCR initially surfaced shortly after the launch of the limited-run Clubsport and Clubsport S models back in 2016.

Long confirmed for market entry by Volkswagen, the new GTI range-topper – and performanc­e swansong for the Golf 7.5 – will reportedly reach customers later in 2019.

Wielding a 213kW version of the EA888 2.0l turbocharg­ed motor, the exclusivel­y sevenspeed DSG-equipped GTI TCR is claimed to accelerate to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 250km/h. As an option buyers can choose to increase this to 260km/h.

Mechanical upgrades over a standard GTI extend to a 20mm drop in ride height, adaptive dampers, beefier brakes plus a stainless steel exhaust system that can be swapped for a titanium version custom-made by the gurus over at Akrapovic. A mechanical limited-slip differenti­al comes fitted as standard for even sharper handling through the most challengin­g of corners.

Aesthetica­lly speaking, the new GTI TCR differenti­ates itself from its lesser sibling with an extended front splitter, more aerodynami­c side skirts and a revised rear air diffuser partnered with a prominent roof spoiler. And 18-inch alloy wheels ship as standard.

The cabin of the TCR features bespoke touches to the bolstered seats and a motorsport-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel. – BDLive

 ??  ?? AGGRESSIVE LOOK: It’s the last hurrah for the seventh generation Golf GTI
AGGRESSIVE LOOK: It’s the last hurrah for the seventh generation Golf GTI

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