What's new?
The engine. This is the 168bhp version of the 2.0-litre pumpe düse unit, with a whopping 258lb ft of torque.
What's it like?
Grunty. There’s no shortage of urge in any gear, although don’t expect much action below 1750rpm, where maximum torque is achieved. The 0-62mph time of 8.2sec is decent, but it’s the in-gear acceleration that most impresses: this is a very quick car on the motorway.
It’s also rather raucous; you won’t mistake this engine for anything but a diesel, although it is more muted when cruising.
Should I buy one?
Perhaps. If you want frugality (47.8mpg on the combined cycle) with good performance, then the £19,095 GT seems like a fine option.
Until, that is, you try the similar-looking Golf GT Twincharger petrol, which, although it has less torque, has the same horsepower, is only slightly less economical (44.1mpg), far more refined and costs £1000 less. £1000 will buy you over 1100 litres of petrol – enough for more than 10,000 miles.
