KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- VW Golf GTI pre-bookings ceased
- Full batch booked in full; 150 units up for grabs
- Powered by a 2.0L turbocharged petrol mill; Price expected north of Rs 50 lakhs
Volkswagen kickstarted bookings for the Golf GTI in India on May 5, 2025, and the response was nothing short of explosive as all 150 units of the first batch were snapped up almost instantly. What makes this even more intriguing is the unique and unexpected method the company used to allocate these cars, one that definitely caught enthusiasts off guard. Let's break down what happened and how the brand approached this exclusive allotment, and if you can expect more to land on Indian shores, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community to never miss out on any latest news and automotive updates.
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Volkswagen Golf GTI Now Off Bookings: More To Come?
Interestingly, Volkswagen took an unconventional route for allotting 150 units of the Golf GTI, which wasn't just about who clicked the fastest. Instead, hopeful buyers had to participate in an online quiz, with only those scoring at least 4 out of 5 gaining access to a pre-booking link, strictly limited to one entry per mobile number. These were pre-launch bookings, meaning some cancellations could still free up slots after the official price reveal. While VW hasn't confirmed plans for a second batch, the overwhelming response makes a strong case for more units making their way to Indian shores, something enthusiasts will certainly be hoping so.
Expected to carry an on-road price of around Rs. 60 lakh, the Volkswagen Golf GTI is set to make its official debut later this month, with deliveries kicking off in June via select dealerships. While its standout appeal lies in its performance-focused 2.0L turbocharged engine, the GTI doesn't cut corners on luxury or tech. Inside, it offers a high-end experience with a 32.8 cm infotainment display, a 26.04 cm digital cockpit, wireless charging, a 7-speaker sound system, and both wired and wireless smartphone connectivity. The cabin also features a panoramic sunroof, three-zone climate control, and customisable 30-colour ambient lighting. Safety is taken care of with seven airbags, ADAS functionalities, and features like Park Distance Control and a rear-view camera. Enhancing its dynamic credentials is the XDS electronic differential lock, which boosts handling precision, making the GTI a well-rounded hot hatch for enthusiasts who crave thrill and refinement.
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Powertrain
At the heart of the Volkswagen Golf GTI is a spirited 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, pushing out an impressive 265 hp and 370 Nm of torque. This setup gives the GTI serious performance cred, enabling it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 5.9 seconds. Whether you're tackling twisty backroads or overtaking on highways, the GTI is capable of giving you punchy, responsive power that lives up to its hot hatch legacy.
Verdict
Performance hatch segment is already pretty niche in our country, where although the i20 and the Altroz Racer finds just a handful of buyers, VW planning to bring in a performance hatch in the premium segment, has played out well for it. Although these are just pre-bookings and can be retracted by buyers and can be alloted to new buyers, the crazy demand might encourage the brand to toy more with the idea of performance focused vehicles that makes a separate space for itself, rather than fightiung for the same piece of the pie.
