Volkswagen has officially launched the Mk 8.5 Golf GTI in India, priced at ₹53 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the most premium offering in the brand’s current Indian lineup. Brought in as a completely built unit (CBU), the first batch of 150 units has already been spoken for, with Volkswagen hinting at the possibility of importing an additional 100 units based on customer demand.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Golf GTI is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine delivering 265hp and 370Nm of torque. This engine is also found in the Tiguan R-Line SUV. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DSG). An electronically controlled front-axle differential lock enhances traction and cornering performance.
In terms of acceleration, the GTI sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 250 km/h. This puts it ahead of rivals like the Mini Cooper S, which does the 0–100 km/h run in 6.6 seconds and tops out at 242 km/h.
Exterior Design and Colour Options
The Golf GTI stands out with a sportier exterior than the standard Golf sold overseas. Key highlights include:
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Matrix LED headlamps connected by a sleek LED daytime running light strip
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Illuminated VW logo up front
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Red accents on the grille and a GTI badge
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Unique X-shaped LED fog lamps
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18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with red brake calipers
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Smoked LED tail-lamps
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Dual exhaust tips and a bold roof spoiler
Customers can choose from four colour options: Grenadilla Black, Kings Red, Moonstone Grey, and Oryx White.
Interior and Features
The cabin carries forward the GTI’s sporty DNA with:
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Sport seats featuring classic tartan-patterned inserts and red GTI stitching
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel with GTI branding
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12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital driver’s display
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Sunroof, wireless charging pad, three-zone climate control
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Paddle shifters, heated front seats, and 30-colour ambient lighting
Safety and Technology
The Golf GTI is equipped with several advanced safety features, including:
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Seven airbags
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Level 2 ADAS suite with automatic emergency braking, lane-change assist, and rear traffic alert
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Rear-view camera
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Tyre pressure monitoring system
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ISOFIX child seat anchors
Conclusion
Positioned as a niche performance hatch, the Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk 8.5 arrives in India with a high price tag but also with unmatched engineering and technology for enthusiasts. With only limited units available and a clear focus on exclusivity, the Golf GTI offers a unique blend of everyday usability and dynamic performance.
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