India has loved the Polo and the GTI, and many including us were disappointed when Volkswagen India pulled the plug on these. Fresh reports confirm that the German giant is planning a comeback into the hatchback space- with a highly anticipated (and legendary) model- the Golf GTI! Volkswagen has put out an official statement saying that it will launch the Golf GTI and Tiguan R Line in the Indian market soon. It goes on to say that these will be introduced early in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025.
Volkswagen Golf GTI and Tiguan R Line Coming To India
We expect Volkswagen (VW) to launch the Golf GTI and Tiguan R Line sometime in April-May. Select dealers seem to have already started accepting (unofficial) orders for the Golf GTI, hinting at an early launch. Though VW has refrained from throwing any light on possible prices, we expect the performance hatchback to be priced around Rs 52 lakh (ex-showroom). Deliveries, according to sources, could commence in August.
Volkswagen India brand director, Ashish Gupta said in a statement:
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.
India-Spec Volkswagen Golf GTI: What To Expect?
When launched, the Golf will become the carmaker's second 'GTI' model to make it to our shores. The first was the Polo GTI which was launched in India in late 2016, under the name ' Volkswagen GTI'. The 3-door hatchback came in limited numbers, but raised genuine consumer interests.
The Golf GTI too is expected to be available in limited numbers, and will be brought in as complete imports (CBU). Sources suggest that just 250 units would be available initially.
The India-bound Golf GTI will hava a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine (EA888) as its powerhouse. It will have 265 hp and 370 Nm on tap, and will come mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG) gearbox. The Golf GTI will be able to get to 100 kph speed from a standstill in just 5.9 seconds. The top speed will be limited to 250kph.
In addition to the strong powertrain, the hatchback will also come with a progressive steering ( which means it will have variable gearing for the steering's rack and pinion), an electronically controlled front-axle differential lock, and an optional adaptive suspension.
In its design, the India-spec Golf GTI ( also the eight generation of the car globally) will be sleek and stylish. Key highlights will include 18-inch 'Richmond' alloy wheels, GTI badges, matrix LED headlights, and contrasting red accent bits. The front and rear bumpers will have aggressivce designs and there will be a dual-tone full-roof spoiler as well.
The cabin will also have a stylish and upmarket design. It will have a layered dashboard design and tartan-clad sport seats.
This hot hatchback will come equipped with features like a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment with Volkswagen's latest user interface and even a voice assistant with Chat GPT integration, digital instrument cluster, GTI steering, automatic AC, wireless phone charger and ambient lighting.
When launched, the VW Golf GTI will compete with the likes of the outgoing Mini Cooper S which has an ex-showroom price of 44.90 lakh.
Tiguan R Line: What Is It?
The R Line is a sportier version of the Tiguan- Volkswagen's current flagship in the Indian market. It gets the signature R-Line styling package, improved aerodynamics, and is known to offer better and more engaging driving experience. Exterior changes over the current model will be larger air intakes and a revised front bumper. The SUV was originally launched in India in 2021, and the R-Line will be the first dynamic update to it.
The Tiguan R Line will be powered by a 2.0L TSI turbocharged petrol engine capable of producing 190 HP and 320 Nm. It will be offered with a DSG automatic transmission and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.