VW Golf GT: First drive

Sunday, October 02, 2005

Autocar made a "first drive" with the VW Golf Hatchback 1.4 FSI GT 3dr.

The new engine develops 168bhp at 6000rpm and 177lb ft of torque from 1750rpm to 4500rpm, 20bhp and 30lb ft more than the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre FSI unit. But it’s the way the new engine performs out on the road that impresses the most. There’s serious pull from the off, with 148lb ft available from 1250rpm, while it is also responsive, flexible and linear well beyond 2400rpm, where the supercharger begins to disengage.

If this is the future for the petrol engine, the trend towards diesel powerplants could already have hit its peak. The Twincharger really is that good.