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New Volkswagen Golf GT model bows in at Frankfurt with 'Twincharger'

Not content with range-topping R32 and GTi derivatives of the best-selling Golf, VW has gone out and developed yet another sporty version, available with two different engines, simply to be called the Golf GT. The GT's exterior could be best described as a toned down GTi, with less extrovert 17-inch BBS alloys, twin exhaust tail pipes and unique bumpers. At the front, the prominent black central grille from the GTi is replaced with a more restrained body-coloured version. Inside, the GT gains superb sports seats and a sports leather steering wheel (though not flat-bottomed as in the R32 and GTi), as well as a boost gauge on the petrol model known as the 'Twincharger'.

Don't worry; I didn't know what that was either until VW enlightened me. Twincharger is the name VW has given to its radical new engine. The 1.4-litre, four-cylinder engine features a turbocharger and a supercharger to produce phenomenal maximum output figures of 168bhp and 177lb.ft of torque. The torque curve should provide diesel-like cruising and acceleration, with the top-end fizz of a petrol engine. Top speed is claimed to be 137mph, with the benchmark 0-62mph said to take just 7.9 seconds. The major benefit of such a low capacity engine (other than cheaper road tax in certain countries) will be low fuel consumption and low emissions. This engine will eventually be available with the superb Direct Shift Gearbox too.

The GT will also be available with a diesel engine, and I wouldn't turn up your nose at the idea either; though VW has not yet provided performance figures for the 2-litre TDI GT, it matches the Twincharger's 168bhp and eclipses the petrol car's torque with its own maximum figure of 258lb.ft. VW's 2-litre TDI is one of the great modern generation turbodiesel engines, utilising twin balancer shafts to remain smooth in operation at the same time as offering decent performance and excellent fuel economy. This latest development takes the unit into the realms of hot hatch performance. No doubt it will come at a price. We'll know more when the cars are launched in the UK early in 2006.

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