VW has unveiled a sporting version of the diesel Golf, using the 168bhp common-rail engine and capable of 53mpg.
Although not exceptionally quick – 0-62mph takes 8.1sec and the top speed is 138mph – the GTD gets the GTI’s suspension setup, with stiffer springs and firmer dampers than regular Golfs.
Read our first drive of the VW Golf GTI here
It will also be available with Volkswagen’s Acitve Control Chassis, and it gets a similar body kit to the GTI's, with the same honeycomb grille.
The GTD has a 'sound generator' in the exhaust; this is a baffle that alters the exhaust note according to the revs.
The car will be available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or VW’s six-speed DSG twin-clutch transmission.
But it’s the car’s potential economy and low emissions that will help sell it. The 53.3mpg on the combined cycle gives it a theoretical range of 645 miles from its 55-litre tank, and CO2 emissions are a claimed 139g/km.
UK pricing has yet to be announced, but VW has said it will be pitched above the less powerful Golf GT TDI, which starts at £19,230 for the three-door. The GTD goes on sale in the UK in July.
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