2016 Volkswagen Golf GTD SportWagen

In January, we waxed lyrically about a recently unveiled automobile that met every platitude of a car journalist's show car--the Volkswagen Golf GTD SportWagen, a diesel station-wagon fitted using a conventional manual transmission. And GTD, obviously, means an easy diesel, the oil burner equal of a GTI. Now that we have invested some time driving, did this ostensible desire car meet our expectations?

The GTD SportWagen (Europe calls it the GTD Version) is driven by the VW Team recognizable 2.0-liter TDI, a turbodiesel motor that generates 184 horsepower between 3500 and 4000 rpm, and a a really powerful 280 lb-feet of torque from just 1750 rpm. In the GTD, it seems totally sporty, and we estimate it propels the station wagon to 60 miles per hour in only 7.9 seconds. Top speed is rated at 144 miles per hour, and judging in the way this vehicle pulls to 100 miles per hour and beyond, that is maybe not simply a hypothetical amount--at least in areas where it may be exercised, like in Europe.

The GTD wagon readily returns an signaled 40 mpg or so--and it is a lot more interesting than any hybrid vehicle we have lately pushed that it will get the advocates of electrified freedom weep.

Sure, a diesel-engine is somewhat heftier when compared to a gasoline motor, and despite utilizing the comparatively lightweight MQB design, the GTD wagon tips the scales at something like 3300 lbs. But Volkswagen's chassis variations help mitigate these details. By way of example, the GTD sits lower when compared to a routine Golf; it is fitted with 225/45 tires on 17-inch wheels (upgradable to 40-chain rubber and 18 Inch wheels); it functions a stability-control program with a sport-mode that enables more wheel-spin; and it comes with a brake-established function that models a limited-slip differential for higher agility. Add to that a properly weighted power steering method, and you've got an innocuous diesel station-wagon that enjoys to charge-up mountain streets and look for sports coupes.

The conventional six-speed manual is really sleek that people would not even believe of picking for the six-speed DSG dual clutch automatic--particularly since the accelerator-blipping that is so much interesting on DSG-equipped gas-powered automobiles does not produce much of an impact with the more sluggish diesel.

Rewarding to drive quickly, yet cozy enough to hide its black side from people who might disapprove of a harder-center conveyance, the GTD comes with several delicate style cues that nod to days gone by. When Volkswagen started the first GTD in 1982, according to the very first-era Golfing (a.k.a. the Hare), it mimicked the appearance of the GTI, but the red accents on the grille were changed with silver. Same point on to day GTD. Otherwise, GTDs visually mimic GTIs, with their discreetly aggressive front and rear fascias. The turn is the Golf SportWagen does not even come as a GTI.

In the U.S. marketplace, the closest point to the GTD SportWagen (besides the Golfing TDI SportWagen) would be a BMW 328d station-wagon, and the Volkswagen would give the Bavarian a run for its money. If only U.S. diesel fuel costs were lower, Volkswagen would be well-advised to start this pleasure and practical station wagon in the States. As for us, it is possible to consider our expectations fulfilled.

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12.05.2015
ID:1921

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