Written by: Martin Ward
Wednesday, June 24, 2009 

Every now and again a manufacturer introduces a new car to its range that makes complete sense. Some add them because they feel they have to, others are added to make up the numbers and some think they will have a demand but simply fail.

 

The GTD is the perfect addition to the Golf range; it looks sporty, has a good engine and is sensibly priced. This alternative hot hatch is loosely based on the new GTI but with a few items removed. These include the split rear tail pipes, chrome grille strips and the red brake callipers. It does however, keep the GTI’s honeycomb grille, sports bumpers and rear spoiler. It has 17” Seattle shadow alloy wheels which do make it look sporty.

 

The main difference between the GTI and the GTD is the engine. The 2.0 TSI 210ps petrol engine is replaced with the ultra efficient 2.0 TDI 170ps which takes the GTD from 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds whereas the GTI has a 0-62 time of 6.9 seconds. The top speed difference between the two cars is only 11mph; the GTD tops out at 138mph. Fuel consumption for the GTD is 53.3mpg on combined in comparison to 38.7mpg on the GTI. Co2 emissions for the GTD are 139g/km and the GTI emissions are 170g/km. Despite these differences in fuel consumption, lower Co2 and power output, the GTD is still great fun to drive as its road holding and stability is just outstanding. It feels so solid on the road and despite it being a diesel, it is far from being slow away at traffic lights or accelerating on the motorway.

 

All the other ‘regular’ new Golf models we have driven recently have been noticeably quiet with regards to wind, road and engine noise but the GTD does have a bit of road noise intrusion into the cabin. This is probably due to the larger 17” wheels. The seats are very comfortable; especially the full leather trimmed seats that were fitted to the test car. These are available as an option and it’s an option well worth the extra money.

 

The GTD we had on test was a silver five door, which although looked really good, it would have looked even sportier in red, black or white. The five door does outsell the three door but my choice would be a three door in white, as I think it would look just brilliant. The Golf GTD would be the natural choice for anyone who desires the Golf’s reliability, sound residual values and a frugal engine that does in the real world, over 40mpg. The price of the GTD starts from £21,850 on the road for a 3 door and the test car costs £22,435 on the road plus the leather upholstery option.

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