Volkswagen Golf GTI axed in Europe ahead of stricter emission standards



Volkswagen has decided to drop the Volkswagen Golf GTI facelift (Mk7.5) from the hatchback line up ahead of the introduction of the more stringent WLTP (World Harmonised Test Procedure) emission test.

This move only concerns the standard Golf GTI while the Golf GTI Performance with 245 hp/370 Nm will continue to be offered in Europe as reported by AutoCar UK. It would seem that Volkswagen will not reintroduce the standard Golf GTI as the new-generation Golf Mk8 is set to make its world debut in 2019.

Golf GTI Performance gets more power, uprated brakes & an electronic front differential

The company might skip the hassle as they would have to refine and re-homologate the Golf GTI Mk7.5 to conform to WLTP standards. However, the German marque will push on with the more powerful Golf GTI TCR variant that is scheduled for market launch later in the year. The GTI TCR will be the most powerful production Golf GTI in existence with 290 hp and 370 Nm from its uprated 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder.

This piece of news may raise concern for many in Malaysia since Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) had just launched the standard Golf GTI Mk7.5. Speaking to VPCM’s personnel, the company are still accepting orders for the Golf GTI for now but will eventually follow the footsteps of the global product strategy, although the company did not commit to a timeline.


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Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk7.5 in Malaysia