Volkswagen is set to bring the Golf GTI to India by August 2025, following years of evaluation. The hot-hatch will be imported under the government’s homologation-free route, with a limit of 2,500 units annually. This marks the Golf GTI’s first appearance in India, though Volkswagen previously launched the Polo GTI in 2016.
Here’s what to expect in the Volkswagen Golf GTI
The updated Golf GTI, revealed in April 2024, boasts a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 265hp (up from 245hp) and 370Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, it accelerates from 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds, 0.4 seconds quicker than before. The hot-hatch reaches a top speed of 250kph and features an electronically controlled front-axle differential lock and optional adaptive suspension.
Styling cues include aggressive bumpers, 18-inch ‘Richmond’ alloy wheels, GTI badges, and a dual-tone roof spoiler. The Golf GTI also comes with Matrix LED headlights and 3D LED tail-lights, both customizable through the infotainment system. Inside, the car features the signature tartan upholstery, GTI-specific digital instrument graphics, and a 12.9-inch touchscreen with improved graphics, simpler menus, and a voice assistant integrated with Chat GPT.
