New Volkswagen Golf GTI to star at Geneva

The new Volkswagen Golf GTI will be revealed at the Geneva motor show in March, it has been officially announced.

The next-generation German hot hatch, which we've spied testing several times, will be joined at the Swiss show by the new Golf GTD diesel, also based on Volkswagen's all-new Mk8 Golf hatch.

Following the Swiss show launch, the even quicker new VW Golf R will make its debut in July at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and, before the end of 2020, the German car-maker will pull the drapes off the new Golf GTE plug-in, providing buyers with four different Golf hot hatches.

Australians will have access to the new Golf GTI from the launch of redesigned Golf range Down Under late this year, but GTD and GTE versions are unlikely for local release at this stage.

Volkswagen hasn't released any official details on the new Golf GTI powertrain, which will stick to the tried-and-tested formula of a powerful 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder, aided by bigger brakes, stiffer suspension and an aero-enhanced body kit.

Originally, it was reported that the GTI might switch to an electrified mild-hybrid set-up like most other variants in the new Golf range in Europe, but the iconic German hot hatch will keep its current EA888 turbo four.

Indeed for Australia, there will be a carryover 180kW/370Nm 2.0-litre engine and limited-slip differential, which have been standard since the VW Golf GTI ‘7.5’.

But in Europe two versions of the new Golf GTI are expected: the standard model with around 185kW and a Performance version bringing 215kW.

Both will bring increased torque that should ensure even the slower of the two will hit 100km/h in well under six seconds and top out at more than 250km/h.

Like before, both a six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch transmissions will be available in Europe, although the former DIY cog-swapper might not make it Down Under.

It's expected Volkswagen will begin teasing both the GTI and GTD in the build-up to the Geneva show.