2014 Volkswagen Golf GTD is a Diesel Hot Hatch Headed to America
One of a half dozen Volkswagen Golfs unveiled today at the Geneva Motor Show, the GTD model is particularly noteworthy as until now its been forbidden fruit in America.
Set to go on sale in the US, likely later this year, it features all of what the GTI has to offer, with the exception of the turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine. In its place is a 2.0-liter diesel making 182 hp and a huge 280 lb-ft of torque, available from just 1750 rpm.
SEE ALSO: 2013 Geneva Motor Show Coverage
Helping this new GTD be even sportier is that fact that it rides on the all new seventh-generation Golf platform, which weighs 220 lbs less than the previous generation.
As mentioned, it’s fully outfitted with GTI-goodies, including similar bodywork, 17-inch wheels with 225/45/17 tires, dual exhaust pipes, a rear roof spoiler and a sports suspension. Inside the GTI theme continues, though with GTD branding on the shifter and gauges, plus there’s a sports steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and those trademark interlagos plaid seats.
Billed as a 2013 model in Europe, the new generation of Golfs will arrive in North America later this year as 2014 models. Look for the GTD to be priced at a premium beyond the already expensive TDI models which start at just over $24,000.
***UPDATE*** GTD fans will have to be patient as we’ve just learned the car isn’t scheduled to arrive until model-year 2015, which means it’s likely to go on sale some time next year ***UPDATE***
GALLERY: 2014 Volkswagen Golf GTD
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With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.
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I have been driving a variety of cars, looking for a replacement for my Legacy GT. I averaged 22 MPG over the last 80K miles, so that is decent mileagefor a 153 MPH sedan. I don't track the car, though I could. I will probably buy a Spec Mazda to thrash, and this GDi would reduce my fuel cost by 50% for my daily driver. Waiting two years might put more options in the market. Go Diesel Performance!
Diesel engines are great, especially the VW turbo diesel. I would have to say that VW produce the best turbo diesels. I drive a 2006 VW golf with a 2litre turbo diesel 4 wheel drive. Amazing to drive. Good things about diesel engines; Very fuel efficient Engine sound is way nicer to a petrol, especially when the turbo kicks in. Petrol cars have better acceleration, but diesel have better top speeds Diesel cars cost more than petrol cars Diesel cars cost more to service than petrol cars but in the long run you would still be saving money on fuel