The Volkswagen Golf GTI, a legendary hot hatchback, has made a remarkable debut in India, with all 250 units of the first batch being sold out within days of opening pre-bookings on May 5, 2025. The company has stopped taking bookings via its official website, and deliveries are expected to begin in June at select dealerships across the country. The Golf GTI’s popularity in India highlights the growing demand for performance-oriented vehicles in the country.
To book the Golf GTI, prospective buyers had to participate in an online quiz, where they had to score a minimum of 4 out of 5 to qualify. Those who qualified received a pre-booking link, which was restricted to one entry per mobile number. The limited-edition Golf GTI was imported via the CBU route, and the first batch was capped at 250 units.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is powered by a 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine that delivers 265bhp and 370Nm of peak torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. The car accelerates from 0-100 kmph in 6.6 seconds and has a top speed of 250kph. The Golf GTI features a sporty design, with matrix LED headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, a contrasting roof spoiler, and distinctive red GTI accents on the grille, hood, and brake calipers.
Inside, the Golf GTI features a 15-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with a ChatGPT-powered voice assistant, a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster with exclusive GTI-themed graphics, and iconic tartan sport seats. Additional features include a panoramic sunroof, tri-zone climate control, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The Golf GTI is expected to be priced at approximately Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom) and will rival the Mini Cooper S.
Volkswagen’s success with the Golf GTI in India is a significant milestone, and the company’s current lineup in India includes the Taigun, Virtus, and the newly introduced Tiguan R-Line. With the Golf GTI’s sold-out first batch, Volkswagen is likely to consider introducing more performance-oriented vehicles in the Indian market. The company’s ability to generate buzz and excitement around the Golf GTI’s launch is a testament to its marketing strategy and the demand for premium vehicles in India.