The GTI exterior, and especially the front end, is also more distinct from the rest of the model series that ever before. Looking at the body lines in detail, the arrow-shaped contours of the bonnet flow unbroken into the newly designed, shield-shaped black radiator grille. The bumper below has three large air scoops supplying intake air to the GTI turbo engine. Like the radiator grille, these are also covered by diamond mesh. A nice look which tuning fans will like.



GTI Interior - If there ever was such a thing as a classic interior, then the first GTI of 1976 deserves that description. The interior of the new GTI achieves a similar distinctiveness with present day technologies and styles. The seats, for instance, are newly designed for the GTI and offer maximum comfort with the best possible side support and sporty looks. The high seatbacks with integrated, but adjustable headrests underscore the interior's feel of functionality combined with sporting intent. The GTI logo stitched into the headrests is one of the perfect details rounding off the interior.



Like the first GTI, the new model has a three-spoke steering wheel with aluminium trim. Today it is even fitted as standard and is covered with perforated leather for a perfect grip. Aluminium is also a major feature of the gearstick knob, the trim inserts and the pedal cluster. Another hallmark of the GTI: the black headliner.



GTI Equipment - Other interior features specific to the GTI include newly designed instruments, air conditioner (Climatic), multi-function display, illuminated front footwells, automatic anti-dazzle interior mirror, rain sensor, coming home and leaving home lighting function, and a tyre monitor display. On the outside the GTI has characteristic fog lights and a 15 mm lower, specially tuned sports suspension. Like all Golf models, the GTI has a comprehensive package of safety features. It includes the electronic stabilisation programme ESP, active front head restraints, three rear head restraints and six airbags.



GTI History - Production of the first GTI was launched in June 1976. There was originally supposed to be a limited edition of just 5 000 GTIs, which were initially available in silver and red only. But then the unexpected happened. The 81 kW / 110 PS GTI, capable of 182 km/h, went on to conquer a new clientele and became the founder of the GTI class. Over four generations the original 5 000 vehicles become over 1.5 million GTIs.


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