Volkswagen Golf Lightweight 'Carbon GTI' in the Works
The 2013 Volkswagen Golf GTI is currently being prepped for production, built on the German automaker’s new MQB architecture, and rumor has it that a limited production, lightweight Golf Carbon GTI will join the lineup in 2014.
The Golf will celebrate its 40th birthday in two years, so giving its enthusiasts a Carbon GTI would be a fitting gift. The model will feature a generous use of aluminum and carbon fiber, helping shave up to 440 lbs in weight and could have a total weight of less than 2,500 lbs. It would also be a fitting tribute to the original, bare-bones GTI that weighed a scant 1,785 lbs.
Powering the Carbon GTI will be the standard 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine with 222-hp. But the lighter body will mean it’ll perform much better all around. It is believed that some of the technology being developed for the Carbon GTI will be applied to future electric and hybrid models of the Golf.
GALLERY: 2013 Volkswagen Golf GTI Spy Photos
[Source: Autocar UK]
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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