Volkswagen is giving its Golf GTI fans an excuse to go into a daydreaming and financial planning frenzy by releasing a new set of pictures of its seventh-generation GTI, and going into more detail about what it has to offer.
Just remember, VW can't be held responsible for the consequences of selling your mother-in-law on e-bay or any other creative solutions you might find to raise the cash.
No South African prices have been released yet, but we can't see it costing less than the old model's R352 200 when it arrives here early in the third quarter of this year.
A BIT MORE PUNCH
To recap on the basic data, the new GTI is powered by the latest version of VW's 2-litre TSI turbopetrol, which is offered in two states of tune.
The basic one is the only one SA customers will be getting - it pushes 162kW and 350Nm, enough to allegedly get it from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds and reach 246km/h.
The 'Performance' model is good for 169kW - but with the same torque output - and this one does 0-100 in 6.4s and reaches the 250km/h mark.
LESS THIRST
Both versions of the EA888 engine receive a newly developed cylinder head and a water-cooled exhaust gas circulation loop to the turbocharger, which is fully integrated into the cylinder head.
Measures like these, along with a 42kg reduction in overall vehicle weight (GTI now tips the scales at 1351kg), smart thermal management and the standard idle-stop system make the six-speed manual version 18 percent more efficient than its predecessor - according to the unrealistic test cycle that carmakers use, where the GTI achieved 6.0 l/100km. The six-speed dual-clutch DSG version is 14 percent more efficient.
BEATING THE BENDS
In addition to improved performance and economy, the seventh GTI promises more joy through the bends.
More direct steering ratios promise an agile steering response and the previous model's XDS electronic differential lock has been upgraded too. Now called XDS+, the new system covers all un-braked driving states and promises greater agility.
Standard safety aids include the Driver Alert System and Automatic Post-Collision Braking, while the options list is packed with items like adaptive cruise control, City Emergency Braking and lane-keeping assistant.
BESPOKE CABIN
Buyers will be able to order a 400-Watt Dynaudio sound system that was specifically engineered for the car.
Overseas models have the characteristic 'tartan' cloth seat trim, however South African models may once again offer leather as standard.
The new GTI's interior is also set apart by unique instrument graphics, bespoke sports steering wheel, red mood lighting and brushed stainless steel pedals.
On the outside, you'll tell the GTI apart from the Golf herd by its red-painted brake callipers, smoked LED taillights, chrome tailpipes and new 'Brooklyn' 17-inch alloy wheels clad in 225/45 rubber.
Have you ordered yours yet?