Skip advert
Advertisement

Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR - price and specs

The Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR to sign off the current Golf GTI before the all-new Mk8

Topping the realigned Golf GTI range, VW has removed the entry-level 227bhp GTI model, now topping it with this GTI TCR, which is based on the thinly veiled concept from Wörthersee last year. 

Killed off thanks to those pesky WLTP emissions regulations, the entry GTI now comes as standard with the previous GTI Performance Pack’s 242bhp engine, while the new 286bhp TCR will slip (just) underneath the flagship Golf R, which itself lost 10bhp due to the new regulations.

Advertisement - Article continues below

> Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR review - an appropriate Mk7 send-off?

The new TCR will reach 62mph in 5.6sec, 0.4sec faster than the standard GTI when fitted with the equivalent dual-clutch transmission, and top out at 155mph, with an option to raise this to 161mph

In its latest model-year update, Volkswagen added some attractive new kit as standard. An Akrapovic sports exhaust system now comes as standard, something that was previously an option, adding more sound and sportier exhaust tips to the mix. New wheel designs are also now available, should the standard TCR items not quite cut it.

In addition to the mechanical upgrades, the TCR also rides some 20mm lower than the standard GTI, integrating adaptive dampers as standard on 18-inch, or new 19-inch alloy wheels. The latter are bespoke to the TCR and only available in a gloss black finish. The bodywork has also been subtly revised, with an extended front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser.

Hidden underneath the new rear bumper is a stainless steel exhaust system, with a further option of a titanium system by Slovenian firm Akrapovič. The brakes have also been upgraded, while the GTI Performance’s limited-slip differential also ensures front traction will be adequately handled.

Inside the cabin Volkswagen has applied a range of bespoke finishes to the seats and steering wheel, the latter with a red 12 O’clock stripe to remind you that you’re in something a little more special than a ‘normal’ GTI.

We’re excited with the prospect of a new flagship Golf GTI model, but can’t help but feel the lack of a manual gearbox might set the tone of the TCR being less involving than the previous Clubsport. Another issue is whether a spiritual successor to the fabulous Clubsport S might be on the cards. With a power output of 316bhp, the Clubsport S still holds the candle as the most powerful production Golf GTI ever, while its unmatched combination of tenacious, grippy, yet thrilling handling, complemented by Volkswagen’s typical polish, made it one of the true stars of the hot hatch genre.

With an all-new Mk8 Golf on the horizon, the gap left to produce a follow-up to one of our favourite ever hot hatchbacks is quickly closing, making it even more imperative that the new GTI TCR doesn’t disappoint as the Mk7 Golf’s final hurrah.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Audi RS3 v Toyota GR Yaris v Mercedes-AMG A45 S – car pictures of the week
Hot hatch test
Features

Audi RS3 v Toyota GR Yaris v Mercedes-AMG A45 S – car pictures of the week

In the latest issue of evo, we test three of the most sophisticated hot hatches on sale against each other on road and track – these are our favourite…
29 Mar 2025
Toyota GR Yaris 2025 review – the modern homologation special gets even better
Toyota GR Yaris
In-depth reviews

Toyota GR Yaris 2025 review – the modern homologation special gets even better

Toyota’s GR Yaris was always brilliant but has received a number of key and welcome updates. It’s even better but also, a lot more expensive.
28 Mar 2025
Mercedes-AMG A45 S 2025 review – the ultimate hyperhatch?
Mercedes-AMG A45 S front
In-depth reviews

Mercedes-AMG A45 S 2025 review – the ultimate hyperhatch?

The A45 S packs some of the most impressive numbers seen in a hot hatch, but is it one of the best to drive?
27 Mar 2025
Honda Civic Type R (FN2) – the car world's greatest misses
Honda Civic Type R FN2
Features

Honda Civic Type R (FN2) – the car world's greatest misses

Its lineage contains some hot hatch greats, but the late-noughties Civic wasn’t one of them
26 Mar 2025
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Honda Civic Type R (FN2) – the car world's greatest misses
Honda Civic Type R FN2
Features

Honda Civic Type R (FN2) – the car world's greatest misses

Its lineage contains some hot hatch greats, but the late-noughties Civic wasn’t one of them
26 Mar 2025
Used Audi RS6 Avant (C7, 2013 - 2019) review, specs and buying guide – family-friendly supercar slayer from £20k
Audi RS6 – front
In-depth reviews

Used Audi RS6 Avant (C7, 2013 - 2019) review, specs and buying guide – family-friendly supercar slayer from £20k

Audi’s C7-generation RS6 may lack ultimate involvement, but it’s still a crushingly effective and desirable super-estate
27 Mar 2025
Performance Link Mazda MX-5 R300 review – an MX-5 with Honda VTEC power
Performance Link Mazda MX-5 R300 – front
Reviews

Performance Link Mazda MX-5 R300 review – an MX-5 with Honda VTEC power

A screaming 296bhp Honda VTEC engine and a full chassis upgrade package turn the NC-generation Mazda MX-5 into something altogether more thrilling
25 Mar 2025