2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR on sale from $51,490

Is the normal Volkswagen Golf GTI too slow or not powerful enough for you? Well, VW may have an answer.

The 2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR has finally arrived in Australia after a 12-month delay, becoming the “fastest production GTI to date” ready to take on the likes of the Ford Focus ST and Renault Megane RS.

Priced from $51,490 before on-road costs, the GTI TCR is limited to just 300 units nationally and brings more power, more performance, and more equipment than the regular Golf GTI (from $46,690).

Headlining the spec sheet is an uprated 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, tuned to deliver 213kW between 5900 and 6400rpm, and 350Nm from 1700 through 5800rpm.

That puts the GTI TCR on par with the all-wheel drive Golf R in terms of power output, though the former is front-wheel drive only, aided by a locking front differential – saving just over 60kg.

A six-speed wet-clutch DSG transmission is in charge of channeling power to the tarmac, helping the GTI TCR dispatch the 0-100km/h sprint in just 5.7 seconds.

It’s worth noting the Australian-market model is slightly different mechanically compared to its European equivalent, which offers more torque (380Nm) and a seven-speed DSG, and claims to hit 100km/h in 5.6 seconds. However, the EU model features a petrol particulate filter (PPF), whereas the Oz-market version goes ‘unfiltered’.

Regardless, the TCR is well up on the standard GTI Performance’s 180kW power output, though down 20Nm (370Nm). It also improves on the GTI Performance’s benchmark sprint time by 0.6 seconds.

The Golf GTI TCR rides 5mm lower than the GTI Performance courtesy of a bespoke adaptive chassis control setup. It also features a performance front brake system with drilled rotors, more aggressive bodykit elements in gloss black, and a “freer flowing” exhaust offering a “distinctive note”.

Other features over and above the specification of the GTI Performance includes:

• 19-inch ‘Reifnitz’ alloy wheels with 235/35 tyres
• Black mirror covers
• Honeycomb TCR decals
• Gloss black roof
• LED headlights with dynamic cornering light
• Dynamic light assist
• Premium LED tail lights with dynamic turn signal
• Sports cloth/microfibre seats
• Sports steering wheel in perforated leather and red 12 o’clock market
• Seat belts and floor mats with red accent
• Alcantara gearshift lever and door trim inserts
• Privacy glass

The only cost-option is a panoramic glass sunroof, which asks for an additional $1900.

A total of three exterior paint options will be offered – Pure White, Tornado Red, and the TCR-exclusive Pure Grey (pictured).

Regardless of finish, the TCR comes with the aforementioned gloss black roof paint and honeycomb body decals.

The Golf GTI TCR is the final iteration of the current-generation Mk7.5 Golf, with the new Mk8 Golf range scheduled to arrive in Australia during the first quarter of 2021.

Stay tuned to CarExpert for our Australian launch drive review of the 2020 Golf GTI TCR this Friday.

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