Volkswagen Golf GTI And Tiguan R-Line: Launch Timelines Revealed
Volkswagen has announced exciting plans to revitalise its presence in India with several new launches scheduled for 2025. The German automaker, which has seen a somewhat stagnant product portfolio in recent years, is set to introduce two attractive products soon- the highly anticipated Golf GTI and the Tiguan R Line. In a recent media statement, Volkswagen India brand director, Ashish Gupta revealed the launch timelines for these vehicles. Let's delve into the details...
VW Golf GTI
The eight-generation Golf GTI is the most anticipated of the two. This is the second GTI model to reach the Indian shores. India loved the Polo GTI which was sold here as the Volkswagen GTI. Many including us were disappointed when the VW GTI was discontinued, despite it being limited in numbers.
The eighth-generation performance hatchback will be brought to India as a complete import (CBU). It will also be available in limited numbers. Reports say that just 250 units would be available initially.
The Golf GTI has a sleek and stylish design. It will have 18-inch 'Richmond' alloy wheels, GTI badges, matrix LED headlights, aggressive bumpers, a dual-tone full-roof spoiler, and contrasting Red accent bits.
The cabin will look upmarket and will have the likes of a layered dashboard design, tartan-clad sport seats, 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Chat GPT integration, digital instrument cluster, GTI steering, automatic AC, wireless phone charger and ambient lighting.
The upcoming Golf GTI will be powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine (EA888) capable of producing 265 hp and 370 Nm. It will be mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox. The car will be able to sprint to 100 kph from a standstill in 5.9 seconds. The top speed will be 250 kph.
The hatchback will also feature progressive steering, an electronically controlled front-axle differential lock, and an optional adaptive suspension for improved performance.
The Golf GTI will compete with the Mini Cooper S (which has an ex-showroom price of 44.90 lakh) when launched. Owing to its CBU route, the Golf GTI could have a price tag of Rs 52 lakh (ex-showroom). Some dealers have already started accepting unofficial orders for the hatchback. The launch is expected early in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025. Deliveries could begin in August this year.
Expected launch: Q2, 2025.
Tiguan R Line
Volkswagen's flagship SUV Tiguan will soon get a sportier version called the R Line. It will have the signature R-Line stylingn and improved aerodynamics. There will be larger air intakes and a revised front bumper as well.
The R Line version will be powered by a 2.0L TSI turbocharged petrol engine that makes 190 HP and 320 Nm. It will come mated to a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox. The SUV will also be equipped with Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The market launch is expected early in the second quarter (Q2).
Expected launch: Q2, 2025.
The Leadership Confirms The Duo's Arrival
In an official statement, Ashish Gupta, Volkswagen India brand director confirmed the launch of both Tiguan R Line and Golf GTI.
"Volkswagen brand has been known for the performance, driving dynamics, build quality and safety of its products, offering a wide product portfolio to millions of customers across the world. Our made-in-India, made-for-the world, Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus, have carried forward these global credentials in India as well. Taking our performance legacy forward, we are elated to bring our global icons to customers in India – the all-new Volkswagen Tiguan R-line and the legendary Golf GTI.
We strongly believe these icons are truly aspirational and will permeate excitement among customers and fans of the brand. The two new carlines will be introduced in early Q2’2025 and will progressively strengthen the brands’ presence in India. Volkswagen India has had a fast start to 2025 with 3% growth in sales volumes YTD Feb’25 (vs. last year). We stay true to our commitment of delivering German - engineered, safe and fun-to-drive cars to the Indian market."