Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Cars
  3. Reviews

VW gives a glimpse of its all-new, oil-burnin’ GTD hot hatch ahead of Geneva

Nick Jaynes
By
VW GTD
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Another new Volkswagen has been revealed ahead of its Geneva premier next month, and it’s one we’ve been looking forward to for quite some time: the all-new GTD.

If you’ve never heard of it, don’t fret: it’s never been offered Stateside – but it might be. The Volkswagen GTD is essentially the much-loved GTI but in place of the turbocharged gasoline engine, Volkswagen mounts a turbocharged diesel four-cylinder instead. If you’re worried the combo might be disappointing – it’s not. VW engineers messed about with the engine management computer, significantly pepping up the diesel performance over its standard VW diesel brethren.

VW GTD
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Now there’s a new one based upon the Mk 7 Golf and it features VW’s new EA288 2.0-liter diesel motor. The new four-cylinder produces 181 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, which represents a 13 horsepower leap over the current Euro-only 2.0-liter GTD diesel. The Mk 7 GTD will make a 0-62 run in 7.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 143 MPH with the six-speed manual. Should the customer choose the seven-speed DSG transmission, however, 0-62 times drop to 8.1 seconds and 138 MPH top speed respectively. We recommend the six-speed.

Recommended Videos

According to AutoCar, the new GTD will achieve a combined 67.3-MPG but that’s in English gallons. In U.S. gallons, that would be 56 MPG. Some how, though, we figure that number will come down by the time EPA estimates are calculated for the US.

VW GTD
Image used with permission by copyright holder

While a price for the U.S. is not yet know, and probably won’t be for some time, we’ll peg it around the $28,000 mark based upon what we’ve seen of Volkswagen’s U.S. pricing to-date. For that money, though, the GTD include sport seats, a sport steering wheel, some stainless steel pedals, and special interior trim. A Volkswagen representative has reminded us, however, that the GTD hasn’t been officially slated for a US release. We’re thinking, based upon the success of other VW diesels here in the States, chances are good the GTD will make its way across the pond this year.

We already think the current Mk 6 GTI is one of the best looking cars on the market. This Mk 7 GTD takes the cake – just look a those Audi R8-like fins by the fog lights. We cannot wait to tear around in a clean diesel hot hatch. Luckily, we won’t have to wait much longer.

Topics
Nick Jaynes
Nick Jaynes
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…
Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?
Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Read more
The 6 best remote car starters in 2024
Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Read more
The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024
The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.

Read more