Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR unveiled, Roars at 330hp

MANILA: If you are a big-time follower of the Grand Theft Auto, and like to spend your time speeding-up and competing with other sports cars, then you might be aware of an iconic GTI sports car, that will most likely be roaring down the race tracks sometime soon. The VW Golf GTI concept car showcased by the German automaker last year has now turned into a reality. Volkswagen has recently uncloaked their all-new racing car, named as Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR, where TCR stands for Touring Racing Car. It has been specifically designed by keeping the track-racing teams in mind. It features a wide and track-focused athlete body that fits very well while racing with other sports cars over the racetrack.

Nowadays, the tag “GT” has gained much hype among youngsters and racing teams. Several popular automakers are coming-up with brand new products carrying a “GT” tag such as the legendary Nissan GTR and GTR Nismo. The Philippines market too would soon get a GT car, as Ford has transmitted positive signals related to the launch of the 2016 Ford GT.

Power of the Golf GTI TCR is the main key feature of this VW car, courtesy of the newly introduced vigorous 2.0L four-cylinder engine, which is tuned to generate a maximum power of 330 hp and achieve a peak torque of 410 Nm. The 2.0L engine is mated to a 6-speed sequential racing transmission accompanied with paddle shifters fitted over the steering wheel. The manufacturer claims that it can sprint from 0-100 kmph in just 5.2 seconds and alongside, the top speed achieved by the VW Golf GTI TCR is 230 kmph.

This newly introduced VW race car is said to be the stripped down version of the current-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI, which has grabbed the award for best sports hatchback of 2015. The cosmetic changes acquired by this new-comer comprise of 18-inch wheels and a custom racing body. As far as aerodynamics are concerned, the firm has fitted a front splitter and a huge rear wing, accomplishing the purpose of designing this car squarely for the tracks.

While talking about the interiors, the firm has fitted all the required equipment that would be helpful for the driver while racing on the race-tracks. It is equipped with a lightweight and a race-ready roll cage, racing seats accompanied by a full harness and FIA-approved fuel tank. In order to give it an all-new aerodynamic makeover, the firm has widened up the chassis, which is comparatively 400mm wider from the ongoing production model of VW Golf GTI.

However, there is still more to come from Volkswagen’s magical box. The Volkswagen Golf GTI is turning 40 this year, so the firm has fitted an over-boost function to boost the total power up to 290 hp, which is insanely high as compared to the official power output of 265 hp on the road going version.

Alongside, the VW Motorsport team has proclaimed that it is also going to compete in numerous TCR championships, which will be held in 2016; both national and international. The German automaker will start delivering the Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR sports car by this March. The 2016 TCR International Series will take-off from Bahrain in March and will continue until November, with its final race to be held in Macau.

Also Read: Volkswagen E-Golf Touch Concept