VW Golf GTi Mk7 Will Have A Limited Edition Lightweight Model

Volkswagen will be offering a limited run, lightweight performance version of the GTi. The ‘carbon Golf GTi’ will extensively use carbonfibre and aluminium. The carbon GTi was developed partly to pay tribute to the original, pared-down GTi. Lightweight aluminium will be used on the front bulkhead, windscreen surround and floor panels while hi-tech carbonfiber will be used for the roof and bonnet. The use of these advanced materials will result to a 200kg drop in the kerb weight of the carbon GTi (to 1125kg) when compared to the outgoing model.
This lightweight Golf will demonstrate how VW will make use of advanced materials. It is actually reminiscent of the original GTi’s agility and simplicity that had a weight of only 810kg. It will be powered by the 222bhp turbo 2.0-litre engine that is shared with the Mk7 Golf GTi. With the lighter body, the 0-62mph acceleration time will improve, falling to under six seconds. Its output will be limited and will be added to the production of the standard GTi.
It’s possible that it will be launched in 2014 just in time to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Volkswagen Golf. The carbon Golf GTI is the result of two production breakthroughs. Insiders said that the roof is a somewhat similar to a sandwich composed of two layers of carbonfibre over a thin steel core, which permits the roof to be welded into the body on a standard production line. Meanwhile, the alloy bulkhead, windscreen surround and complete rear floor, which begin from under the rear seats until the rear bumper is riveted or bonded to the steel understructure.