Wörthersee isn’t an event for everyone. But if you are a Volkswagen fan, or more specifically a GTI fan, this is an event you should keep an eye on. It brings together Volkswagen owners from across the continent, converging on a town by a lake for an event that is quite nearly unequaled. So important is the Wörthersee event that Volkswagen itself has it’s apprentices carry out design concepts which are usually put on feature at the event for the public to see.
Last year was pretty spectacular, although this time around things are a little more subdued. On display were a SKODA pickup and a Golf Wagon with a diesel bi-turbo engine, but the main highlight was a Golf GTI Dark Shine edition. In terms of overall design, the car is largely the same as a standard Mk7 GTI.
From an aesthetic standpoint, this “Dark Shine” model is perhaps a little over the top. Looking at it is much like taking a look at the ricer days of the turn of the century, with bright accents and highlights contrasting a plain grey body. The interior is not spared either, with plenty of neon yellow outlines and panels.
But fret not, for the engine has been fettled with as well in order to produce something more substantial; something that can live up to it’s looks. The modified 2.0-litre TSI engine develops 395 PS (290 kW). Maximum torque of 487 Newton-meters is available at 4,700 rpm. The stainless steel exhaust system with enlarged tailpipe trims is hand-crafted. The unique GTI also features a carbon air box. The intercooler and the control units for the engine and the DSG dual-clutch gearbox have been specially adapted.
It also features a high-end audio system with a total output of 3,500 Watts. Eight speakers in the passenger compartment and three subwoofers in the rear deliver sound that is both powerful and crystal clear. The central subwoofer is lit by LEDs and partially glassed in. It’s a little bit “Pimp My Ride”, but it’s an interesting exercise in audio equipment.
