Don't underestimate the importance of the GTI - after all, it's the reason many of us are Euro enthusiasts in the first place. And the latest Mk6 Golf GTI is the car by which VW is judged. Yes, the Phaeton, Scirocco and CC might be more glamorous, but the GTI is the real key to VW's continued success.
It's also the benchmark within the industry, the car by which all others are judged. You know every major automotive manufacturer has one that's used for product evaluation. And while some competitors may have more power, and others may have more exciting design, none can offer the same pedigree.
You can read our first impressions of the new GTI elsewhere in this issue. And while we had an unforgettable experience behind the wheel, there are engineers losing sleep over this car. It sets new standards for balance and handling. With its adjustable ride and electronic diff, the GTI will be introducing technology to the sector that is going to make it even harder for its competitors to keep pace.
We strongly advise you to get behind the wheel of one after its October arrival and drive it very, very hard. You certainly won't be disappointed.
Admittedly, the Mk6 GTI (and we're happy they've reinstated the Golf nameplate, although we're sorry to see "Rabbit" disappear again) shares a great deal with the outgoing Mk5. And while some people have suggested it's a bad thing, and that VW has been too conservative, we don't see it that way.
The Mk5 was a revolutionary step forward with its independent rear axle. It brought back the GTI's legendary agility. And coupled with the 200hp turbo motor, the GTI has been restored to the pinnacle of affordable performance cars.
I first drove the Mk5 GTI on the legendary Col de Vence in France; a road we returned to for the introduction of the Mk6 GTI. To be honest, you could drive an AMC Pacer through those hills and it still would be memorable, but tackling them in the latest GTI is one of the best moments of my life.
I should apologise to Jamie Vortex, my passenger on both occasions, for driving harder than I should on public roads. He has an iron-clad constitution and seemed to tolerate it. In fact, he insisted we both run the road a second time to prolong the amazing experience.
VW still makes incredible cars. And the latest Mk6 GTI is among the very best FWD cars I've ever driven. Wolfsburg credits Hans-Joachim Stuck with the new car's prowess, and we bow at the feet of the master.
Compared to the Mk5, the Mk6 drives better on the limit, looks sharper, is quieter and more refined, yet VWoA is hoping to sell it for around the same price as the Mk5. And for that we should rejoice.
If you're interested, there should be video of our exploits on the Col de Vence in the Mk6 GTI floating around, you can
Greg Emmerson, Editor
eurotuner@sorc.com