Volkswagen Golf GTI vs. Volkswagen Golf GTD
Published Date: 9th Feb 2023
1. Overview of Volkswagen Golf GTI and Volkswagen Golf GTD
Volkswagen's Golf GTI and Golf GTD are two of Volkswagen's most popular models. The Volkswagen Golf is a classic hatchback that has been around since 1974, offering great value for money with its spacious interior, reliable engine and modern technology. The Volkswagen Golf GTI offers sporty performance with its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing up to 245 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque. It also comes with an array of features such as an advanced traction control system for improved handling, 'GTI' nameplate, ambient lighting exterior illuminated styling elements in door handle recesses and front grille, automatic headlight control with LED separate daytime running light with coming home and leaving home feature, body-coloured exterior mirror housings and door handles among other features.
The Volkswagen Golf GTD, on the other hand, is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine providing up to 200 horsepower while still being economical in fuel consumption at 4.8 litres/100km combined cycle fuel economy rating (NEDC). It also has several unique features, including laminated safety glass windshields for heat insulation as well as soundproofing; IQ LIGHT - LED Matrix headlamps; rear fog light on one
2. Design Differences - Exterior Styling, Interior Finishes, and Ambient Lighting
The Volkswagen Golf GTI and Volkswagen Golf GTD are two distinct models, each offering a unique style of exterior styling and interior finishes. The Volkswagen Golf GTI has an aerodynamic shape with sharp lines, wide wheel arches, a sculpted front bumper and striking LED headlights. It also features a colour-coordinated grille with red accents, 18-inch wheels, and chrome detailing on the door handles and side skirts. On the inside, there is a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Volkswagen's Car-Net App-Connect technology as well as ambient lighting elements in the door handle recesses and front grille. The Volkswagen Golf GTD has an equally attractive design, albeit with more robust styling cues, such as a new radiator grille in a 'black titan' finish with red stripes that run across its entire length giving it a sporty look from the outside. Inside there is an 8-inch colour touchscreen display to manage functions such as audio settings or satellite navigation, 'IQ Light' LED matrix headlamps for better visibility at night-time driving, 'Bright Pack' which adds additional lighting elements to the footwell area and door panels for improved ambience during night drives and a leather multifunction steering wheel that offers advanced control over vehicle systems while cruising along roads.
3. Performance Comparison - Engine Options, Suspension System, Braking System
The Volkswagen Golf GTI and Volkswagen Golf GTD are both equipped with reliable engines that are capable of delivering powerful performance. The Volkswagen Golf GTI is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces up to 245 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque, while the Volkswagen Golf GTD relies on a 2.0-litre diesel engine providing up to 200 horsepower. Both models come with an advanced suspension system; the Volkswagen Golf GTI has MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, while the Volkswagen Golf GTD has slightly softer suspension components such as hydraulic dampers and stabiliser bars tuned for enhanced comfort and agility. Both vehicles also come with strong braking systems featuring electronic brake distribution (EBD) for stability under heavy braking, as well as anti-lock brakes (ABS) for improved control in dangerous conditions. Furthermore, Volkswagen's Anti Slip Regulation (ASR), Automatic Post Collision Braking System (APCBS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) keep drivers safe from hazards on the road. In short, both Volkswagen Golf models offer great performance capabilities due to their powerful engines, coupled with robust suspension systems and effective braking systems, which ensure a smooth ride no matter what kind of terrain you may encounter.
4. Technology Features - IQ Light LED Matrix Headlamps, Digital Cockpit Pro Display Screen, We Connect Functionality
The Volkswagen Golf GTI and Volkswagen Golf GTD offer advanced technology features that make them stand out from other cars in their class. The IQ LIGHT - LED Matrix Headlamps provide superior forward visibility on the road with sharp and powerful illumination, allowing drivers to see more details at night. In addition, Volkswagen's Digital Cockpit Pro Display Screen allows for easy navigation as well as access to vehicle settings, multimedia options and more. Both models are also equipped with Volkswagen’s We Connect functionality which offers smartphone integration, enabling users to stay connected while driving. We Connect includes access to navigation with real-time traffic updates, voice control, remote unlocking and Volkswagen Car-Net App Connect for increased convenience. Furthermore, Volkswagen's Adaptive Cruise Control system can help you maintain a safe distance between your car and the vehicle ahead by automatically adjusting your speed when needed. All these features combined create an overall safer and smoother riding experience than ever before.
5. Safety Features – Airbags, Keyless Entry Systems and Tyre Pressure Loss Indicators
The Volkswagen Golf is one of the most advanced vehicles on the market, offering a wide range of safety features that guarantee driver and passenger safety. Volkswagen’s 'IQ Light' LED matrix headlamps offer superior illumination for night-time driving, providing tremendous clarity and visibility so drivers can avoid obstacles without difficulty. Volkswagen also offers 'Bright Pack', which adds additional lighting elements to the footwell area and door panels for improved visibility during night drives. Furthermore, Volkswagen’s Airbag System (VAS) provides front and side airbags in order to protect passengers in the event of a collision. The Volkswagen Golf also comes with a Keyless Entry System, allowing drivers to unlock their car with just a push of a button, as well as Tyre Pressure Loss Indicators that monitor tyre pressure levels and alert drivers when they need to be refilled. Volkswagen's Automatic Post Collision Braking System (APCBS) helps prevent secondary collisions by automatically applying brakes after an initial impact, while Anti Slip Regulation (ASR) helps maintain vehicle stability during hard braking or acceleration. All these features together make Volkswagen’s Golf one of the safest cars available on the market today.
6. Comfort & Convenience – Seating Options and Mobile Phone Prep with Inductive Charging
The Volkswagen Golf offers a host of comfort and convenience features that make driving pleasant and safe. The Volkswagen Golf GTI and Volkswagen Golf GTD come equipped with comfortable and supportive seating that can be adjusted to the driver's liking in order to provide maximum comfort during long drives. Volkswagen has also included mobile phone prep with inductive charging, so drivers can stay connected without having to worry about their device running out of battery. Furthermore, Volkswagen’s comprehensive safety system incorporates numerous features designed to keep drivers safe on the road: from the IQ Light LED Matrix Headlamps, which provide superior forward visibility, to Volkswagen’s Airbag System (VAS), which provides front and side airbags for enhanced protection in the event of a collision. Volkswagen’s Anti Slip Regulation (ASR) helps maintain vehicle stability under heavy braking or acceleration, while a Keyless Entry System allows drivers to unlock doors conveniently with just one push of a button. In addition, Tyre Pressure Loss Indicators monitor tyre pressure levels and alert drivers when they need to be refilled. Finally, Volkswagen's Automatic Post Collision Braking System (APCBS) helps prevent secondary collisions by automatically applying brakes after an initial impact. All these features together ensure that the Volkswagen Golf is one of the safest cars available today, offering superior comfort and convenience as well as peace of mind for its drivers.
7. Final Verdict – Which Volkswagen Golf is Right for You?
Volkswagen’s Golf GTI and Golf GTD are two of Volkswagen's most popular models, offering a unique blend of performance, technology and safety features. The Volkswagen Golf GTI has sporty power and great handling, while the Volkswagen Golf GTD offers an efficient diesel engine with excellent fuel economy. If you're looking for all-around value, the Volkswagen Golf provides plenty of space, modern tech features, and top-notch safety equipment. Ultimately it will come down to individual preference as both cars have their own advantages in different areas. Both Volkswagen Golf models provide peace of mind thanks to their robust build quality and extensive safety technology features that help keep occupants safe on the road. For those who want a powerful hatchback with outstanding safety features, the Golf GTI and the GTD are fantastic options.
Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI
GTI Engines & Gearbox
- Golf 8 GTI 2.0 TSI 245PS 6-speed Manual 5 Door - Petrol Consumption combined 38.2 mpg
- Golf 8 GTI 2.0 TSI 245PS 7-speed DSG 5 Door - Petrol Consumption combined 38.7 mpg
CO₂ emission combined - 168 g/km 1
Standard Equipment of the GTI
Alloy Wheels - Richmond - 225/40 R18 tyres.
Anti-theft wheel bolts.
`Air Care Climatronic` (3-zone) with rear air conditioning control panel.
Ambient lighting, 30 colour
Auto-dimming rear view mirror
Electrically folding/adjustable door mirrors, separately heated with memory function
Front seats with manual height adjustment
Leather-wrapped, heated, multi-function sports steering wheel with touch control
LED front footwell illumination
Lumbar support in front seats
Rain sensor
Welcome light
Activated charcoal canister for intensified evaporation system
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Advanced high-beam control Dynamic Light Assist for LED matrix headlamps
Car2X - intelligent vehicle networking
Driver alert system, fatigue detection
Driving profile selection
Dynamic headlight range control, with dynamic cornering light
Dynamic road sign display
Electronic parking brake with auto-hold function
Front Assist - Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring
Lane assist and traffic jam assist
Lane change system Side Assist, Rear Traffic Alert and exit warning system
Multifunction front facing camera for distance control
Oncoming vehicle braking when turning including swerve support
Parking sensors, front and rear
Speed limiter
Start-stop system with battery regeneration (recuperation - energy recovery during braking)
WLTP RDE 2 - Emissions standard EU6d
XDS - Front differential lock for improved traction and handling
'GTI' name plate
Ambient lighting, exterior illuminated styling elements in door handle recesses and front grille
Automatic headlight control with LED separate daytime running light with coming home and leaving home feature
Body-coloured exterior mirror housings and door handles
Body-coloured rear spoiler
Exterior mirrors, convex on the left and aspherical on the right
IQ.LIGHT - LED Matrix headlamps with LED sep. daytime running light, dynamic cornering light and dynamic turn signal
Laminated safety glass windshield, heat and sound insulating
LED front fog lights with 5-honeycomb design
LED rear lights with dynamic turn signal
Rear exhaust tailpipe
Rear fog light on one side, reversing light on both sides
Rear tinted glass from B-pillar backwards, approx. 65% tinted
Two-tone horn
Unique 'GTI' styled bumpers
'We Connect' and 'We Connect Plus' functionality
Digital Cockpit Pro - 10.25" high resolution dash display screen with customisable menus and information
Digital radio reception (DAB)
Diversity antenna for FM reception
Dynamic road sign display
Mobile phone prep with inductive charging function
Multifunction front facing camera for distance control
Navigation system 'Discover Media' incl. Streaming & Internet
Radio
6 Speakers
2 USB-C ports in the front, 2 USB-C charging sockets on the centre console in rear, charging capacity up to 45 W
Wireless App-Connect
12V socket in luggage compartment
Aluminium gearshift knob/handle
Auto-dimming rear view mirror
Brushed stainless steel pedals
Carpet mats, front and rear
Chrome-plated surround to electric mirror button, window switch and air vent surrounds
Decorative inserts 'Black Metal Chrome' in dash and front door panels
Door insert, side trim panel and arm support in leatherette
Front centre armrest
Inserts of front seats and outer rear seats in fabric 'Jacara' check cloth
LED reading lights, two in the front and two in the rear
Rain sensor
Speedo & rev counter, electronic odometer, trip, service interval display & exterior temp gauge
Sports seats in front
Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors
Unsplit rear seat bench, split folding backrest with centre armrest
e-call' Emergency call service
12V socket in centre console
3-point seat belts in front with seat belt pretensioners
3-point seat belts, outer rear with ECE label
Alarm with interior protection
Curtain and side airbags in front with centre airbag
Disc brakes in front with red brake calipers
Disc brakes in rear, with red brake calipers
Driver and front passenger airbag with front passenger airbag deactivation
ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
Extended pedestrian protection measures
Integrated head restraints for front seats
Isofix child seat preparation, easy-fit (for two outer rear seats, and front passenger seat), compatible with I-size
Keyless entry
Three rear head restraints
Three-point seatbelt for centre rear seat
Tool kit for tyre mobility set
Tyre mobility kit including compressor and sealing foam. In lieu of spare wheel
Tyre pressure loss indicator
Warning signal and warning light for front and rear seat belts not fastened
Inserts of front seats and outer rear seats in fabric 'Jacara' check cloth
Volkswagen Golf 8 GTD
Muscular design gives the Golf GTD an imposing presence to match its powerful diesel engine.
GTD Engine & Gearbox (Only one available)
- Golf 8 GTD 2.0 TDI 200PS 7-speed DSG 5 Door - Diesel Consumption combined 54.3 mpg
CO₂ emission combined - 136 g/km 1
Standard Equipment of the GTD
Alloy Wheels - Bakersfield - 225/40 R18 tyres.
Anti-theft wheel bolts.
`Air Care Climatronic` (3-zone) with rear air conditioning control panel.
Ambient lighting, 30 colour
Auto-dimming rear view mirror
Electrically folding/adjustable door mirrors, separately heated with memory function
Front seats with manual height adjustment
Leather-wrapped, heated, multi-function sports steering wheel with touch control and shift paddles
LED front footwell illumination
Lumbar support in front seats
Rain sensor
Sports suspension
Welcome light
Advanced high-beam control Dynamic Light Assist for LED matrix headlamps
Car2X - intelligent vehicle networking
Driver alert system, fatigue detection
Driving profile selection
Dynamic headlight range control, with dynamic cornering light
Dynamic road sign display
Electric auxiliary air heater
Electronic parking brake with auto-hold function
Front Assist - Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring
Lane Assist, Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist
Lane change system Side Assist, Rear Traffic Alert and exit warning system
Multifunction front facing camera for distance control
Oncoming vehicle braking when turning including swerve support
Parking sensors, front and rear
Speed limiter
Start-stop system with battery regeneration (recuperation - energy recovery during braking)
WLTP RDE 2 - Emissions standard EU6d
XDS - electronic differential lock for improved traction and handling
'GTD' name plate
Ambient lighting, exterior illuminated styling elements in door handle recesses and front grille
Automatic headlight control with LED separate daytime running light with coming home and leaving home feature
Body-coloured exterior mirror housings and door handles
Body-coloured rear spoiler
Exterior mirrors, convex on the left and aspherical on the right
IQ.LIGHT - LED Matrix headlamps with LED sep. daytime running light, dynamic cornering light and dynamic turn signal
Laminated safety glass windshield, heat and sound insulating
LED front fog lights with 5-honeycomb design
LED rear lights with dynamic turn signal
Rear exhaust tailpipe
Rear fog light on one side, reversing light on both sides
Rear tinted glass from B-pillar backwards, approx. 65% tinted
Sports bumpers
Two-tone horn
'We Connect' and 'We Connect Plus' functionality
Digital Cockpit Pro - 10.25" high resolution dash display screen with customisable menus and information
Digital radio reception (DAB)
Diversity antenna for FM reception
Dynamic road sign display
Mobile phone prep with inductive charging function
Multifunction front facing camera for distance control
Navigation system 'Discover Media' incl. Streaming & Internet
Radio
6 Speakers
2 USB-C ports in the front, 2 USB-C charging sockets on the centre console in rear, charging capacity up to 45 W
Wireless App-Connect
12V socket in luggage compartment
Aluminium gearshift knob/handle
Auto-dimming rear view mirror
Brushed stainless steel pedals
Carpet mats, front and rear
Chrome-plated surround to electric mirror button, window switch and air vent surrounds
Decorative inserts 'Black Metal Chrome' in dash and front door panels
Door insert, side trim panel and arm support in leatherette
Front centre armrest
Inserts of front seats and outer rear seats in fabric 'Jacara' check cloth
LED reading lights, two in the front and two in the rear
Rain sensor
Speedo & rev counter, electronic odometer, trip, service interval display & exterior temp gauge
Sports seats in front
Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors
Unsplit rear seat bench, split folding backrest with centre armrest
e-call' Emergency call service
12V socket in centre console
3-point seat belts in front with seat belt pretensioners
3-point seat belts, outer rear with ECE label
Alarm with interior protection
Curtain and side airbags in front with centre airbag
Disc brakes in rear, with red brake calipers
Driver and front passenger airbag with front passenger airbag deactivation
ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
Extended pedestrian protection measures
Integrated head restraints for front seats
Isofix child seat preparation, easy-fit (for two outer rear seats, and front passenger seat), compatible with I-size
Keyless entry
Three rear head restraints
Three-point seatbelt for centre rear seat
Tool kit for tyre mobility set
Tyre mobility kit including compressor and sealing foam. In lieu of spare wheel
Tyre pressure loss indicator
Warning signal and warning light for front and rear seat belts not fastened
Inserts of front seats and outer rear seats in fabric 'Jacara' check cloth
Summary: The Volkswagen Golf GTD and Volkswagen Golf GTI are both amazing cars that offer a unique and exciting driving experience. Both models come with the standard EU6d engine, XDS - electronic differential lock for improved traction, and 'GTD' nameplate. On the exterior, they feature body-coloured exterior mirror housings and door handles, a rear spoiler, and IQ.LIGHT – LED Matrix headlamps with LED separate daytime running light, dynamic cornering light and dynamic turn signal, rear exhaust tailpipe, rear fog light on one side, reversing light on both sides and tinted glass from B-pillar backwards. Inside the vehicle is brimming with modern technology, including We Connect and We Connect Plus functionality, Digital Cockpit Pro 10.25" high-resolution dash display screen with customisable menus and information, radio reception (DAB), diversity antenna for FM reception, navigation system ‘Discover Media’ including streaming & internet capabilities plus mobile phone prep with inductive charging function. Furthermore, there are 12V sockets in the luggage compartment, aluminium gearshift knob/handle auto-dimming rear-view mirror brushed stainless steel pedals carpet mats in front and rear chrome-plated surround to electric mirror button window switch and air vent surrounds as well as a door insert side trim panel armrest in leatherette. Finally, Volkswagen provides enhanced safety features such as e-call emergency call service, 12V socket in the centre console, 3-point seat belts in front seat belt pretensioners curtain airbags, driver airbag deactivation, ESC electronic stability control, extended pedestrian protection measures integrated head restraints for front seats Isofix child seat preparation keyless entry three rear head restraints three-point seatbelt for centre rear seat tool kit tyre mobility set tyre pressure loss indicator warning signal plus warning light for front and rear seat belts not fastened making Volkswagen Golf GTD and Volkswagen Golf GTI an unbeatable combination of style performance convenience safety technology comfort all round.
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