DESPITE the force of environmentalists lined up against diesel technology, Volkswagen has chosen to unveil a new mass-market sports diesel estate.
For the first time, the GTD initials will grace the new Golf Estate, which like the Golf GTD, boasts the 184 PS engine. The new model is set to make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
The model is likely to be a popular choice with company car drivers despite moves in the EU and by London’s proposed clean air provisions aimed at taking the oil-burners off city streets
The model is likely to be a popular choice with company car drivers despite moves in the EU and by London’s proposed clean air provisions aimed at taking the oil-burners off city streets.
The turbo-diesel engine takes the Golf GTD Estate to 62 mph in just 7.9 seconds with the 2.0-litre unit delivering a maximum torque of 380 Nm – and yet this sporty Estate claims combined fuel consumption figure of 64.2 mpg.
The car’s sporty character is reflected in its exterior design: along with special GTD bumpers and the honeycomb radiator grille, the Golf GTD Estate also features smoked rear lights and flared sills. The look is completed by 17-inch Curitiba alloys, black roof rails and dual chrome tailpipes. Also standard on-board the Golf GTD Estate are bi-xenon headlights, sports suspension with ride height lowered by 15 mm, and progressive steering, which gives a sharper response during high-performance driving as well as ensuring greater comfort in ordinary conditions.
Inside, the dynamic theme continues, with sports seats in Clark tartan, illuminated doorsills, black headliner and black pillar trims. Added to this, there are numerous decorative inserts and panels in Checkered Black, plus stainless steel pedal caps. Further refinements include the multifunction steering wheel with aluminium trim and the gear knob styled as a golf ball.
The Golf GTD Estate is also available with 18-inch Nogaro alloy wheels and seat covers in a choice of Alcantara or Vienna leather. Optional extras include a Sports and Design package featuring driving mode selection, Nogaro 18-inch alloy wheels, red brake callipers and tinted windows.
The Golf GTD Estate is expected to go on sale in the UK in April, with first deliveries in June. UK pricing and specification will be confirmed closer to launch.
