Volkswagen has unveiled the racing version of its Golf GTI to mark the celebration of its first model that rolled-off the production line 40 years ago.
Dubbed the Golf GTI TCR, it features 18-inch racing alloys, a chassis that is roughly 40 centimetres wider than the production Golf, and a striking rear wing to guarantee optimal handling. An aerodynamic front splitter and carbon rear wing are among the modifications available for the GTI TCR. The ensure maximum safety for the driver are a racing seat with head protectors, racing safety roll-cage, and an FIA-approved safety tank. All in, the GTI TCR weighs in at 1,280kg, including the driver.
The GTI TCR is powered by a 2-litre turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine with direct fuel injection used in the top sporting model, the Golf R. The racing version generates 330 hp and produces 410 Nm of torque. That runs to the front wheels via a six-speed sequential racing transmission with paddles mounted on the steering wheel. It all works together for a 0-100km/h run of 5.2 seconds and an estimated top speed of 230km/h.
If you’re looking to grab one of these hard-core GTI racers for yourself, then you’re out of luck because 20 units have already been sold to teams for the FIA’s 2016 Touring Car Racing International series—hence the “TCR” in the car’s name – with the first cars set to be delivered on March 11. The first race kicks-off in Bahrain and it will soon head down to Sepang as a support race for the Malaysian Formula Grand Prix.
TCR International Series – Calendar
01/04–03/04/2016 Bahrain*
22/04–24/04/2016 Portugal (Estoril)
06/05–08/05/2016 Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)
20/05–22/05/2016 Italy (Monza)
03/06–05/06/2016 Austria (Salzburg)
17/06–19/06/2016 Germany (Oschersleben)
01/07–03/07/2016 Russia (Sochi)
26/08–28/08/2016 Thailand (Buriram)
16/09–18/09/2016 Singapore*
30/09–02/10/2016 Malaysia (Sepang)*
18/11–20/11/2016 Macau
*support programme for the FIA Formula One World Championship.
