Volkswagen has released first pictures and details of the new seventh-generation Golf GTI, ahead of its debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week.

The new Golf GTI is powered by a 217bhp 2.0-litre TSI engine and for the first time it is available with two levels of power – the performance packs boosts, the power to 227bhp.Both versions are equipped with a Stop-Start system, delivering an average fuel economy of 39.2 mpg with CO2 emissions of 139 g/km when linked to six-speed manual transmission. That’s an 18 per cent improvement in fuel economy compared to the previous model. With the optional six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GTIs return 36.8 and 36.2 mpg respectively.

The GTI also features red-painted brake calipers, twin chrome tailpipes, and a lowered sport suspension, 17-inch “Brooklyn” GTI wheels and 225/45 tires, special side skirts, a rear diffuser, and smoked LED taillights with LED license-plate illumination.

The interior coms with “Clark” tartan pattern, a black headliner, red ambient lighting, a sport steering wheel, GTI shifter knob grip and instrument cluster, special trim inserts, and stainless- steel pedals and foot support.

From The Press Release:

VOLKSWAGEN DEBUTS NEW GTI AT THE GENEVA AUTO SHOW

– Available with two levels of power for the first time: standard 220 horsepower or 230 hp with performance pack (European model)

– Offers 18 per cent improvement in fuel economy compared to previous GTI

– On sale in Europe starting in May, 2013

Wolfsburg, 27th February 2013 – Following tradition, Volkswagen will introduce the latest version of the Golf GTI at the Geneva International Motor Show. For the first time, the iconic hot hatch is available at launch with two power levels: 220 horsepower; or 230 hp with the optional performance pack.

The new GTI is powered by a turbocharged direct-injection gasoline engine (TSI®) that makes 220 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque in standard form. Volkswagen is offering a factory- installed performance pack for the first time, which boosts power to 230 hp. Both versions are equipped with a Stop-Start system, fulfill the EU-6 emissions standard that takes effect in 2014, and attain the same excellent DIN gas mileage figure of 39.2 mpg-which equates to 139 g/km of CO2-when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission. This means that the new GTI offers an 18 percent improvement in fuel economy compared to the previous model. With the optional six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission, the 220- and 230-hp GTIs return 36.8 and 36.2 mpg respectively (equivalent to 148 and 150 g/km CO2).

The sporty nature of the Golf GTI is reflected in its red-painted brake calipers, twin chrome tailpipes, and a lowered sport suspension. The exterior of the compact hatchback also scores with 17-inch “Brooklyn” GTI wheels and 225/45 tires, special side skirts, a rear diffuser, and smoked LED taillights with LED license-plate illumination.

?Visually, the interior is highlighted by sport seats with the “Clark” tartan pattern, a black headliner, and red ambient lighting. The car also offers classic GTI features such as a sport steering wheel, GTI shifter knob grip and instrument cluster, special trim inserts, and stainless- steel pedals and foot support.

Standard features include the progressive steering system; “Climatronic” automatic climate control; park assist; Volkswagen’s latest touchscreen infotainment system; and a winter pack that includes heatable front seats. Customers can choose from three body colors: “Tornado Red”, “Black” and “Pure White”. In Germany, the car goes on sale in May with prices starting at 28,350 euros.

Overview.

Market launch in Europe: May 2013.
Debut of first-generation Golf GTI: 1976.
Engine: Four-cylinder TSI (turbocharged direct-injection).
Layout: front, transverse.
Displacement: 1984 cc.
Bore and stroke: 82.5 x 92.8 mm.
Compression ratio: 9.8:1.
Power: 220 hp (162 kW) @ 4500 rpm; Performance pack: 230 hp (169 kW).
Torque: 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) @ 2500 rpm.
Transmission/drive type: Manual six-speed; DSG six-speed dual-clutch; front-wheel drive. Fuel consumption/CO2 emissions (manual): 39.2 mpg; 139 g/km CO2.
Performance (manual): 0-62 mph in 6.5 sec: Max speed; 153 mph (230 hp: 6.4 sec; 155 mph). Unladen weight: 2978 lb (base version)
(*preliminary data)