Forza Motorsport 6: The Smallest Supercar

This is Abarth's equivalent of a Porsche 911 GT3 RS, getting rid of stuff not needed for track duty and made it one of the most potent track weapons that will upset the big guys. Say hello to the 695 Biposto, part of the T10 Summer Car Pack.

Before we talk about this ultimate Abarth ever made, let's have a quick perspective about this tiny monster. "Born on the track, to live the road." The 695 Biposto from Fiat's Abarth performance brand draws inspiration from the track-focused 500 Abarth Assetto Corse, therefore giving its knack of being "the smallest supercar" from the Abarth 500 lineage.

As the most potent 500 Abarth ever made, the 695 Biposto weighs around 997kg (courtesy of its lightweight materials as well as extensive use of carbon fiber equipment), powered by a turbocharged 1.4L petrol engine producing 186HP of power, can get through 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds, and has a weight-to-power ratio of 5.2kg/hp. For the first time in a road-legal car, the 695 Biposto arms with a dog-ring gearbox with light flywheel and copper racing clutch.

The 695 Biposto also offers with a Track Kit, made for racing purposes only, complete with a digital data logger, Sabelt racing seat belts, Sabelt carbon shell racing seats, and a personalized racing helmet.

As a hot hatch equivalent of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, the 695 Biposto is a non-nonsense track weapon that shows that even when focused on its handling capabilities, this hot hatchback loves to toy around even the biggest of sportscars when it gets round the corner. For such size, you may never know what tricks this car can play on its unsuspecting victims and this sneaky stinger likes to shake things up like a stealth kill on its unsuspecting predators from behind. Driving in the real world, the 695 wasn't made for this job due to lack of aircon and radio but for track use, especially when it comes with the Track Kit, the 695 is an enjoyable car that you drive as much as you want until you're not in a mood for a lightweight hot hatchback that values its handling more than anything else, especially its power. Not bad for a car that was proclaimed as the "smallest supercar" in the world.

Okay, if Abarth calls the 695 the smallest supercar in the world, let's put their theory to the test because I'm driving this car round the Brands Hatch GP Circuit and see if the 695 lives up to Abarth's promise by comparing it against the hot hatch powerhouses from Germany. I've picked the VW Golf R and the Mercedes A45 AMG as the basis for this challenge and see if the 695's handling capabilities trump against both of the power-hungry hatches.

Without further ado, let the experiment begin!

And now the results:

1:54.413 - Golf R
1:52.344 - A45
1:58.039 - 695

Well, so much for the smallest supercar. Although being a track-capable vermin, it still wasn't good enough to outsmart the most powerful ones but if I disregard the lap times and if I consider handling as a strong focal point, I have high doubts that the 695 Biposto is a clear winner. Those four-wheel drive Germans were great to drive but with all that struggle I felt when I get them round the corner, there is no way that the 695 Biposto is a good old-fashioned masterpiece and I acknowledge the Italians for bringing such a fine specimen like this.

As I had much fun driving the 695 Biposto, I wanna find out what's next in store for this car as well as the Abarth lineage.

VW Golf Alltrack, GTD Variant, and R Variant

The latest-generation Golf Variant maybe more of a new Golf with some added luggage space big enough for your thrift shop hauls that can't stop you from hoarding some more but if you think the normal Variant's not your taste, there are so many Golf Variants to choose from but which one suits you?

2015 VW Golf Alltrack

Well, not exactly one of these. Yes, this is the Golf Alltrack and what this is is a Golf Variant with some added ground clearance and some tough cladding to think this is as tough as...your dad's harsh mouth when he talks you back.

This is like a normal Golf Variant, you get the same Golf interior, the same Golf looks, the similar cargo space from the Golf Variant, and the choice of engines. There's a 1.6 TDi engine produces 110PS of power, and a 2.0 TDi engine with two configurations with the latter producing a more powerful 184PS of power output. 

While the Golf Alltrack, like any other hatchback-based crossovers built only for city use, has front-wheel drive standard, some models (especially more powerful ones) come with a nifty four-wheel drive layout and a 6-speed double clutch gearbox which shifts faster than normal manual gearboxes but can be somewhat complicated for the joyous ones.

The idea of having a Golf Alltrack is because you wanted a so-called sport utility vehicle but you can't afford either a Touareg or a Tiguan or the upcoming Passat Alltrack, which is just like the Golf's only a little bigger, and thanks to its 30,200 Euros starting price, you can really afford one than any of those VW sport utilities. However, because it's available with a diesel-only lineup, there's no sense of fun while driving one or is it?

2015 VW Golf GTD Variant

This is also a diesel-powered Golf Variant but this is the Golf GTD Variant, the big-booted version of the Golf GTD, which is known as the GTi's diesel cousin. Now, if you were sitting here and asking why VW didn't made a GTi version of the Golf Variant and there's a really good reason for this one. Although the Golf GTi has always been the king of front-wheel drive cars, VW doesn't have the time to spawn a Variant version of the GTi but instead use its diesel cousin to spawn why? Could this be another one of their automotive conspiracies? Oh well, but still the GTD Variant comes with the same 184PS TDi engine from the normal GTD hatch and can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or a double-clutch gearbox.

The GTD Variant, like its hatchback equivalent, balances performance and fuel efficiency in a not-so-difficult matter, It can do 0-100kph in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 231kph, so this is a fast diesel-powered wagon for a stop. Handling wise, the GTD Variant is more fun to drive than the Alltrack thanks to its XDS+ E-diff lock, ESC Sport function which makes the car more sharper in the bends, and progressive steering which makes steering a lot more easier than normal Golf Variants. Oh and before you can spout a word, yes, it still roomier inside boot space remains as usual for a Golf Variant.

 

Price? You can have one for 31,975 Euros and while this is almost 2,000 Euros more than the Alltrack, this hot station wagon is just the right car for the job because it can be convenient to drive on the day-to-day basis, it can be fun in the open roads, and overall, it's better or is it?

2015 VW Golf R Variant

This is the most powerful station wagon in the VW range and this is the Golf Variant that can really blow almost every Golf Variant in the range. It's called the Golf R Variant and this station wagon is made with only one purpose in mind; POWERRRRRRR....

It's got a 2.0L TSi engine that produces 300PS of power, it's got a 7-speed double-clutch gearbox, and it's got four-wheel drive. These performance figures transformed the R Variant from a normal, soccer-mom friendly station wagon, into a super wagon that likes to lick the apex and because of being a new Golf, we are becoming extremely jealous because...how come we don't ride the latest versions even though the lucky ones just had?

It's not about the expensive 42,925 Euro pricing but it's because of the fun factor that we're somewhat lacking due to market reasons, mostly Americans. When VW launched this one at the LA Auto Show last year, the Americans thought they want to have one but sadly, VW pointed out that this one's not for sale. What just happened? Why would they launch a car in the location that is not made to be sold in the first place? That's another conspiracy but hey, since this is a German car built in Germany, it sure knows how to speak German in terms of its character. It maybe prone to understeering but it feels so accessible in the corners and it really gets you through like sipping a bottle of Red Horse Beer upside down.

So, there you are. These three utterly different versions of the Golf Variant maybe feel different but they really are the same cars. The Alltrack maybe focused to be a cheaper alternative to VW's list of crossovers while the GTD Variant balances performance and efficiency at the same time and the R is all about performance in different angles. If you have to choose between these three, which one?

Photo: Volkswagen AG

VW Golf Sportsvan vs. BMW 2-Series Active Tourer

2014 Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan

The brand new Golf Sportsvan maybe more of a replacement to the old Golf Plus MPV but for the newest version of the MPV version of the new Golf, it's not what you called a proper people mover for bigger families because the Sportsvan is a 5-seater just like the old Golf Plus but unlike the Golf Plus, the new Sportsvan is 134mm longer than the old one. It's also 83mm longer than the normal Golf hatchback but 224mm shorter than the Golf Variant.

2014 Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan interior

Of course with all that added dimensions than the Golf Plus, you might think that the brand new Sportsvan has more room for the family but it can be a yes or no. Although the Sportsvan doesn't have more space than the Golf Variant, the rear seats can slide forwards and backwards and can be folded so you can have 1520 litres of boot space, just enough to fit just two macho-sized balikbayan boxes for keeps but it can be quite as bothersome as littering those undelivered ones in your grandma's house.

2014 Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan

Because it utilizes on the flexible VW MQB platform just like on the regular Golf and most current and future VW Group models, the new Sportsvan is slightly lighter than the old Golf Plus but it is punishingly heavier than the Golf Variant estate, which is kinda of an annoyance but as an MPV with a plan, the Sportsvan is not bad considering the use of multi-link rear suspensions and its wonky electric power steering. Although uncomfortable to drive on the twists or at the spiraling roads like the ones that lead to to the rooftop of some parking lot from the airport, the Sportsvan's mobility and stability is beyond average. Not quite good but not quite bad either so it's more of an okay for the European families.

As for engine choices, the Sportsvan can be offered with two 1.2L TSi petrols, two 1.4 TSi petrols, a 1.6L TDi, and a 2.0L TDi diesel engines. Depending on the engine choices, it can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG which shifts faster than the manual.

So, what about pricing? The Sportsvan starts at 19,625 Euros, about 200 Euros more than the Golf Variant but for an MPV of that magnitude, it can be a smart buy.

2014 Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan

The Golf Sportsvan may not be a proper alternative than the Golf Variant estate but in the world of MPVs, this German baby MPV tries to fare out from the rest with its legendary VW quality but how German is this when it matches up with its new challenger, only a bit more posh?

2015 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer

This is BMW's first ever, and by no means a plot twist, front-wheel drive vehicle and their first ever baby MPV in the lineup. It's called the 2-Series Active Tourer.

For most BMW fans like us, a true BMW has to be RWD no matter which shape or form will be. Be it a hatchback, sedan, or an SUV, it doesn't matter because being RWD is what BMW's all about. For this new one here, this is a plot twist that we don't like. 

We hate plot twists because while we all want our TV shows to move smoothly as planned, the producers often want to add plot twists to keep the story longer and longer until the edge of the universe. Yes, BMW has a naming structure to have even numbers for two-doors, convertibles, and Gran Coupes while odd numbers for four-doors, estates, and Gran Turismos. When BMW decided to call this the 2-Series Active Tourer, this situation is as confused as what Toyota did when they've used the Mark X name for their front-wheel drive MPV called the Mark X Zio.

2015 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer

Mind you, this isn't like the Mark X Zio because the 2AT is much more good to drive but for a BMW, this is not a good sight. Even though BMW says that they've added some multi-link rear suspension, that's not gotta work, although the 2AT did used the same UKL1 platform as the new Mini.

The new Mini? Isn't the one I called it "Wumbo" because of the added size? Well, while this is just a Wumbo underneath, the 2AT is just nothing personal. Although it doesn't feel like a proper BMW, it still fare well when it comes to its stability. Because this is a front-wheel drive, it feels very much as civilized as a well-behaved student and while most rear-wheel drive BMWs are somewhat afraid to the elements Mother Nature throws at them, be it snow or rain, the 2AT is not quite bad at all.

If you opted for the xDrive model, the 2AT is well prepared for the wet or snowy roads ahead at all cost, although the weight penalty can slightly suffer its mobility but never mind.

2015 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer interior

On the inside, it's much more different than the typical BMW interiors that most models have but only just. Just like the VW Sportsvan, the rear seats can slide forward or backward and it's foldable for added space and it even comes with the hidden underfloor bin where you can store more stuff as much as your want especially discreetly ones that you don't want to expose it to your families.

On the driver's side, it's not so bad, especially the dashboard itself. It's high-tech as it pleases you when you want to use the radio, music player, sat-nav, or whatever it has in its disposal. I can toy around with this as much as I want until someone wants me to get out.

2015 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer

At launch, the 2AT is offered with a turbocharged 1.5L petrol engine for the 218i, 2.0L turbo petrol engine for the 225i, and the 2.0L diesel engine for the 218d. It's a good thing they're all turbocharged just like what most BMWs do now and forever...minus the forever part. On the top range 225i model with xDrive, this engine develops 231PS of power, 350Nm of torque, 0-100kph in 6.8 seconds, and top speed of 235kph. If you're fuel-conscious, the 218d's your best bet because while this have more torque than the petrol equivalent, combined fuel economy is around 24.4km/L. Good stuff though, and depending on the model, it can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed auto gearbox, although this gearbox has one more than the VW Sportsvan's DSG except it's a little less complicated.

To you, Bimmer fanatics, don't think the nightmare ends here because in the near future, BMW will expand their FWD lineup ranging from a new compact crossover, the next X1, the next 1-Series, and a possible FWD convertible that's going to be as tad dull as the Renault Megane CC. The 2AT is the start of BMW's diminishment as "freude am fahren" but because most models, regardless of powertrain, will always have turbos in their lineup, looks like it's not going anywhere, although there is potential fear that BMW maybe making naturally aspirated engines but hey, aren't BMW put an end into natural aspiration engines? Oh yeah... They really want to make an all-turbo lineup but with some added consequence like those fake engine sounds from the M3, M4, M5, and M6. Did you get me?

Should you buy it? Sadly, nope for this kind because the starting price for the 2AT is 27,200 Euros, meaning that not only it's expensive than the 1-Series hatchback, it's much more expensive than the VW Sportsvan or even the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. Ouch...

To sum up these two, the VW Sportsvan is the better bet because not only it's cheaper to own than the 2AT, it's also sportier to drive, has the most wheelbase, the tallest, the widest, and much roomier. The BMW 2AT may not be a good family MPV for a start because of its pricing and it's going to be hatred by most BMW enthusiasts because of its FWD powertrain but its turbocharged engines surely add some life to it, has some luxury car comforts, and you can do better if you try.

But we don't really want to drive in these two because, let's be honest, we want to stay single because we all have the freedom to do whatever we want because if we got married and had kids, this is what we'll end up with. Bummer...

Photo: Volkswagen Group, BMW AG

Volkswagen Golf VII R

2014 Volkswagen Golf R

Since 2012. Volkswagen launched the all new Golf VII and for us, it's a bit too simple for its own taste. A year later, the range keeps on growing with the addition of the new Golf GTI, Golf GTD, Golf Estate and Golf TDI BlueMotion. Now, the Golf range continues to grow with the addition of the ultimate Golf yet. The R...

The R is the ultimate VW Golf?

Yes. Well, sort of. Anyway, the Golf VII R served as the high-performance version of the Golf VII and sits on the higher position of the Golf food chain, slotting above our fan favorite GTi.

Does it come with a 5-door model?

Yes. Like the previous model, the new Golf R is available in either a 3-door (if you're more of a loner) or a 5-door (if you have friends). Drivers who want a more driver-focused hot hatch would go for the three door while casual drivers would go for the five-door model. Regardless of which, it's still a hot hatch to end all hot hatches. The Golf to end all Golfs.

2014 Volkswagen Golf R

The performance figures...what is it?

The new Golf R comes with a powerful 2.0L turbo engine producing 300PS of power. It may be less than the ultimate king of hot hatches, the A45 AMG, but for the Golf R, it's still more enjoyable to drive. For transmission choices, you can have a 6-speed manual gearbox or an automatic dual clutch gearbox (DSG). Even though they're normally limited to 250kph, I'd recommend choosing the manual gearbox because having a turbocharged monster with the manual gearbox can be a lot more fun. Let's be honest, while the DSG option is quicker than the manual model, the one with the manual gearbox is still enjoyable to drive. There's nothing more fun than a happy Brainiac shifting gears in a 300PS hot hatch, if you know what I'm saying.

2014 Volkswagen Golf R

What about the 4WD system?

The engine may be new but the 4WD system on the new Golf R is pretty much different because it now incorporates the Haldex 5 coupling. Because of the updated 4WD system, you can expect this to be 18 per cent more efficient than the previous model. The torque-split distribution feels a bit different than what it used to be because at start, torque is distributed to the front but if you want things to be more messy, the new 4WD system can run the rear wheels in a split second and all the power goes to the back. If you set the traction control and ESP off, the new 4WD system takes "science abuse" graduated to a whole new level.

How's the interior?

2014 Volkswagen Golf R interior

The new interior is still pretty much decent. It still has lots of equipment, such as sat-nav, climate control, and tons of other stuff to make this hot-hatch a do-all car for day-to-day basis. No wonder the idea of a good hot hatch is to have everything the driver wishes. Sure, hot hatches can be as fun as a supercar but because it has a bigger boot in the back, enough to fit a celebrity in the back, you can leave your worries behind. You can even have seats made of Nappa or Alcantara.

Should I buy one?

Good question, though. The new Golf R starts at 38,325 Euros, about ten thousand Euros less than the A45 AMG so in theory, this hot hatch is a bargain in its own right. But if you don't have that kind of cash, best to stick to the GTi instead but still, the GTi is an enjoyable hot hatch. It's more well-balanced and an overall game-changer in the hot-hatch stakes.

Skoda Rapid Spaceback and VW Golf VII Variant

As a rule, I only cover cars that were grown from the country where its made, well almost. Japanese cars speak Japanese, Korean cars speak Korean, American cars speak American, German cars speak German, you get the idea. As for the Skoda Rapid, released last year, I'm only focused on the original Czech version rather than the Indian remake because they're very different from how it's made. Mlada Boleslav-made Rapid is the original Rapid I'm tackling because, well you know the rule, we don't cover cars not sold from its home markets.

2014 Skoda Rapid Spaceback

This is the Rapid Spaceback model and this hatchback version is what you can expect only on the original Czech version. Apart from its hatchback looks, Skoda claims that the all new Spaceback is the “first Skoda hatchback in the high-volume compact segment,” which looks “dynamic and fresh for young customer groups.” Yeah. For young customer groups but how dynamic and fresh is the new Spaceback?

First and foremost, the new Spaceback costs 269 900 Kč, which is the same as the saloon model I've examined last year alongside its Spanish SEAT Toledo twin, and amazingly, even in an altered bodywork to accommodate more space in the back, you can still expect the same engine choices like the 1.2 MPi, 1.2 TSi, 1.4 TSi, and the 1.6 TDi engine. Depending on the engine types, you can go for either a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, and a 7-speed DSG.

The most powerful in the lineup was the one with the 1.4 TSi engine which has a 0-100kph time of 9.4 seconds and a top speed of about 203kph. Hmmm...Not quite exciting for a car like that though but the 1.2 TSi engine model is a moderate one that can be taken very seriously. Regardless of the specs, what's like to drive as a driver's car?

2014 Skoda Rapid Spaceback interior

By the moment you first drive the Spaceback, your first impressions isn't really a good one because judging by all means Czech, it feels as cruddy as the Korean cars and as confused as the low-cost machines, especially the one you can keep yelling "Good News" to your peers. It's like some of the things Jon Tickle's body can't do but for this Spaceback, there is one thing you can't do; to excite. It maybe a yuppie's car but trying to have fun in one of these is as...pre-school-ish as letting your baby do all of the things you can't. It feels like just another senior citizens' car or rather a future banger but despite that, it's still work as a family car.

With rear seats in place, the Spaceback offers 415L of space, more than enough to put your everyday groceries on the back but if you're in a bit of a leisure man, you can fold the rear seats down and attain 1380 litres of space, more than the present-day VW Golf has but less than its big brother, the Octavia. The interior maybe suffered from, what should I call it, cost-cutting-itis, but in terms of today's economy, it's a smart buy for those who want a new car that suits their budget. Hmmm... Cost-cutting-itis? I should better add that to the Big Book of Boo Boos. Don't judge me from this, this isn't some sort of kids show my baby's frequently watching, I'm in a middle of...this!

Anyway, the Rapid Spaceback maybe more of an Audi A3 on a budget but it's still doesn't worth the mettle to be a family car. Regardless from this, this is one proof that I only choose the original Czech Rapid rather than the Indian-dubbed remake. Same thing why I like the original UK version of Top Gear rather than the US version.

However, if I want a more practical family mover, I have to move to Germany and check this out...

2014 Volkswagen Golf Variant

It's the brand new Golf VII Variant, it's basically an all-new model based on an all-new Golf rather than a carryover from the previous model and oh, if you're from North America, nein. This new Golf Variant won't be called J_tt_ Sp_rt_w_g_n (some vowels blocked to avoid search query hijinks, again. I said this so I don't want to see some mess when I check my site's analytics, you get me?). Anyway, it maybe larger than the original Golf hatchback but thanks to its enhanced rear legroom, it's much better than the Rapid Spaceback as well.

The Golf has been proven to be a people power for the masses and this is the first to incorporate Volkswagen Group's new MQB platform which you can expect future models from the VW Group to wear this new outfit. The benefits include reduced weight (up to 105 kg lighter), optimised package (100 litres more cargo space), sharper body proportions, new safety and convenience systems, new petrol and diesel engines (up to 15 per cent more fuel efficient) and new running gear technologies.

With Volkswagen finally returned on Philippine soil, it seems the latest Golf will not come around until next year because so far, the only available VWs Filipinos can buy are The Beetle, the Touareg, the Tiguan crossover, the Jetta sedan, and the Touran minivan, which is essentially based on the Golf. One thing that really shocked me is that the petrol VW engines are not compatible with Philippine fuels because of, and we're not joking because Automobile Central Enterprises confirmed, manganese. Eewww...

2014 Volkswagen Golf Variant interior

Anyway, back on the new Golf Variant because for the first time, it comes with the XDS+ electronic differential lock which corrects the car every time when it faces the corners. You can opt in for the DCC dynamic chassis control in which at the touch of a button, you can make it more comfortable on the normal roads or sportier on the open roads but as for me, no matter which mode, it feels almost the same as none. You want to have a more comfortable ride or a sportier ride but by default, it feels a bit more of a default. Oh and if you're going old-school, there's also the sport suspension which drops the car by just 15mm. Lower height makes it a well-cornering act but be warned, it does make you feel uncomfortable on your back because when you hit the bumps, expect your ribs to be transplanted on your head.

There are so many engine types offered on the Variant like the 1.2 TSi, a 1.4 TSi, a 1.6 TDi, and a 2.0 TDi engine but for those who want a well-balanced car should go for the one with the 1.4 TSi with 122PS of power. 0-100 takes about 9.7 seconds and flatout, it will do about 204kph, faster than the Rapid Spaceback's but there's a twist and that's the stupid 7-speed double clutch gearbox which is as swift as a metro aide clearing the roads from the falling leaves. Do I have to be bothered by this? Well, there are so many choices available for the new Golf Variant but it might be best not to go to a more complicated ones.

Unlike any other big wagons available, the new Golf Variant is worth a value for the masses and with 18,950 Euros of starting price, that makes it a great value so it's your choice; if you want a family car would you consider a Czech hatchback with a different back or a true German family car that is worth noting than nothing? Good luck, pals.

Photo: Volkswagen Group

Volkswagen Golf VII GTD

2014 Volkswagen Golf GTD

The latest Golf GTi is hands down one of the best GTi ever made for the unnecessary selfie who wants a proper hot hatchback that does everything he wishes for but in a terribly twisted way, there's the diesel cousin, called the Golf GTD. Think of the GTD as a Golf GTi...with the fuel of Satan on it because this is a diesel-powered hot hatch you may not want to add to your collection but in times like these, do you consider having one of these in your garage? A GTi with some diesel credentials on it? This is a kind of thing that make you go hmmm...

First and foremost, it is available in either a 3-door or a 5-door, a 6-speed manual or a DSG, and they're all powered by a 2.0L turbodiesel engine which produces 184PS of power, less than the petrol-powered equivalent but VW says it's 14PS more than the old GTD model of the 2009. That sounds uncanny for a diesel powered hot hatch which seems to be not quite as hot as a Golf GTi but for this new diesel engine, VW says that it exceeded its expectations to be...Euro 6 compliant. Yeah, I know, the whole Euro 6 emission standard will be implemented next year but such improvement really knows that this GTD did prepared for the future. It's like "here today, ready for tomorrow" and hey, kinda sounds familiar about that tagline. Do you where is this kind of tagline?

Oh, well, you don't need to tell me but the new GTD has a naught to 60 time of under eight seconds and flatout, it can do about 143mph, making it the fastest diesel-powered Golf ever made. So, not bad for Volkswagen though, let's not forget that a diesel powered Seat Leon FR is cheaper than that. Anyway, how about being a driver's car? How does the new GTD show its affinity to the driver in mind?

Well, thanks to the new MQB platform, it feels a bit more civilized even on the bumpy roads. It doesn't want to get itself shattered while facing the corner thanks to some sporty dynamics implemented on it. Even though it's sharper than a normal Golf, the new GTD is not as aggressive as the petrol-powered GTi equivalent. It's not quite stiffer as it felt in the handling department but the steering is just too quick and very nimble. It's like eating a duck after using it for an experiment where you're figuring out if a duck's quack can echo. Trust me on this, even the duck's quack can echo and that's general science.

But the Golf GTD isn't a duck's quack that can echo through an closed space, this is like pub science where you're pulling experiments on the pub until you'll get kicked out by the pub owner. It may perform under than the petrol-powered GTi but it's still got that bang that VW fans love.

Photo: Volkswagen

Volkswagen Golf VII GTi

A true hot hatch needs to be somewhat fun to drive, has some of the gadgets for the driver to enjoy such as listening to music, a boot to put something at the back, and everything else that what makes a hot hatch, the hot hatch but not all hot hatches are made to be hot hatches because they all come in different shapes and sizes. It's the year 2013, and it's going to be the golden year for hot hatches good, bad, and ugly. From the Renault Clio 200 EDC, the one with the double clutch gearbox and 5 doors that doesn't make any sense for a hot hatch to the Peugeot 208 GTi which is a sensual hot hatch for the chosen few, there's a whole lot of hot hatches coming right at you and for Volkswagen, they're not absent for the hot hatch race.

2014 Volkswagen Golf GTi

Welcome everyone to the brand new Golf GTi, the latest version of Volkswagen's most talked about hot hatchback everyone wants to have one. When I said "most talked about", I wonder if this is the kind of car that sparked a worldwide trending topic in the social medium? Anyway, started out in life as a Volkswagen Golf VII, the plain-looking one with the new type of platform, but the GTi injects some of the historical GTi heritage in the latest Golf so by the looks of it, it's not all that bad but be warned though, the GTi is the bad boy of the Golf range so the only thing the new GTi is good for is being as bad as John Travolta. Gosh, why would I want to make tortured metaphors on this? Oh well...

With the sport-tuned suspension, turbocharged petrol direct-injection engine (TSI) with 220PS of power output, and a whole lot of gizmos loaded on it, the new GTi loves to turn a bored driver into an extreme brainiac. So extreme, there's going to be a whole lot of science abuse out here. So, science abuse eh? How was it? Well, since this car wants me to turn into a brainiac with the love for abusing science, this isn't a car, it's like thermite disguised as a...um...well, what do you call those kind of candy that goes "pop" when it gets dipped on your tongue? Well, I don't know what kind of candy but I tried one of those "popping" stuff. Anyway, that's how it feels like. It's a thermite made to look like candy because that's what the new GTi best described.

2014 Volkswagen Golf GTi interior

No matter which transmission you chose, either a 6-speed manual or the 7-speed DSG, the new GTi has a 0-100kph time of 6.5 seconds, bridging the gap between the Renault Clio 200 and the Peugeot 208 GTi. Top speed is 246kph, meaning it's quicker than the 208 GTi or the Renault Clio 200 as well, even with 5 doors! Wait? 5 doors?! Oh yeah, I almost forgot, the new Golf GTi is available in either a 3 door for the tangy ones or a 5 door for the not so daring. Okay, I said the daring part but never mind. The 3-door version is daring for the hardcore but the 5-door is for those who had friends and then go out to the nightclub to waste themselves dancing. Pricing starts at 28,350 Euros, which means that this GTi's reasonably priced. Every speedo boy wants to have one for a living though but for the matured speedo boys, there's a patch for that...

2014 Volkswagen Golf GTi

There's also a new PERFORMANCE version of the new Golf GTi and what you get on this update is an additional 10PS of power, 250kph of top speed, and then there's the newly engineered electronic front differential lock developed specifically for this variant. Anyway, we don't need words to explain what's what, this GTi Performance version turns the normal Golf GTi into what it feels like it's been acting like "Jack the Ripper". Ouch. So Jack the Ripper-ish, the only thing that you might expect next is the snapping of your neck. While I'm not going to demonstrate how neck-breaking this Performance is, it's still the new Golf GTi I know. A perfect track wolf on a track day and a pefect cruising buddy on your weekends. This car won't make you disappoint, it will always plant a huge smile on your grin until you are opted to do the face dance. What you're looking up here is what I believed to be the best GTi ever made and you are more than welcomed to find one at your nearest VW dealer.

Available colors:

• Pure White
• Schwarz
• Tornadorot
• Carbon Steel Grey Metallic
• Limestone Grey Metallic
• Night Blue Metallic
• Reflexsilber Metallic
• Tungsten Silver Metallic
• Deep Black Perleffekt
• Oryxweiß Perlmutteffekt
• Blau
• Dark Violett Perleffekt
• Deep Blue Perleffekt
• Inky Blue Perleffekt
• Lichtblau
• Mercato-Blau Metallic
• Moonlight Blue Perleffekt
• Ravennablau Metallic
• Silberblau Metallic
• Techno-Blau Perleffekt
• Ultramarinblau
• Violet Touch Perleffekt
• Ginstergelb
• Yellow
• Platinum Grey Metallic
• Silbergrau Metallic
• Zinngrau Metallic
• Bright Green Perleffekt
• Minzgrün
• Racing-Grün
• Resedagrün
• Colarot 2000
• Dark Burgundy Perleffekt
• Flash-Rot

Photo: Volkswagen

Volkswagen Golf VII

Nur wer die Menschen kennt, kann das Auto bauen.

2013 Volkswagen Golf

2013 Volkswagen Golf

For almost four decades and for six generations, the Volkswagen Golf is one of the key vehicles of the Volkswagen lineup and as of 31st July 2012 - exactly 29.13 million units sold since 1974, the Volkswagen Golf, is one of the most successful motorcars in the world. Now though, with its seventh incarnation, a new chapter of the Golf storyline is about to begin, like a new chapter for a big movie.

As I speak, this is the first new model to incorporate Volkswagen Group's new MQB platform, a new generation platform that allows access to new powertrains and technologies, including innovations in the areas of safety and infotainment, which until now were reserved for vehicles in higher segments. This new platform was currently on the latest version of the Audi A3, and the upcoming Seat Leon and hopefully, this new platform will be applied in future models the Volkswagen Group's been diddling about.

As a car made for people by people, the Golf is a well-civilized vehicle that targets any age demographic. It doesn't matter if you're 20's, 30's, middle-aged, senior, or whatever. This is the other people's car since The Beetle and this is not just a car, it's a religion of some sorts and this new model is on the whole new testimony for the next generation of Golf owners.

For this new model, it's now 56mm longer than the previous incarnation. Even the wheelbase is longer, making it possible to accommodate more interior space. The enhanced dimensions of the new Golf courtesy of the MQB platform generates 0.27cD of drag coefficient. About as similar as using a hair blower on your face.

Even though the new chassis is proven a worthy contender, there's one thing I'm not particularly fond of and it was the new Golf's look. Even though this was the improvement of Walter de Silva's VW design DNA, this new look kinda looks like some pensioner who lives in a retirement home in Yorkshire. Yes, it looks like a senior aged retiree who is wearing bicycling outfits and that looks a bit...well, corny. However, when you get inside the interior, this is far more different from conventional VW interiors of other models.

2013 Volkswagen Golf interior

I wouldn't say much about the interior but it seems that not only the new chassis made it lighter, the inside did take some SENSA and a bit of Zumba, therefore most of its components like the dashboard, module, air conditioning, seats, and others also contributed to the almost 40kg of weight loss to the superstructure. That's an amazing achievement here but what about the engine types offered on the new Golf that had been taken too much SENSA and Zumba?

We're expecting a 1.2L TSI, 1.4TSI, 1.6 TDI, and 2.0 TDi engines, each with different characteristics and specs that affects the Golf's behavior. Either way, they can be fitted with either a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, or the DSG Doppelkupplungsgetriebe for quicker shifting than manuals, well this is just only a hunch. Most of the engines come with BlueMotion Technology that promises to be economical and yes, it do come with the feature that shuts the engine off when you stopped at the red light and then start again when you set off. Idling stop for short. That's what I'm saying.

The one with the 1.6 TDi engine is the efficient of the range with 3.8L/100km of fuel economy while the one with the 2.0 TDi engine is the most powerful Golf in the range with top speed of 216kph. It all seems fine but next year, the seventh Golf will be having high performance versions, especially the one that we're not going to mention it because of search engine issues. You get me?

Besides, with Ayala Corporation is now the OFFICIAL distributor of Volkswagen in the Philippines, I really had my fingers crossed that this new seventh-generation Golf will be on their portfolio. This car is on sale in Germany for 16,975 Euros for the entry-level version while next year, it will arrive in other parts of the world such as North America, Middle East, and Asia. Because the fact that China is one of VW's biggest customers, I think that the new Golf VII would get some high stakes here.

Oh and one more thing...they're available in 3-door and 5-door. Thanks...

Photo: Volkswagen AG

ABT tunes the seventh Golf

ABT Golf 7

No kidding. They've done it again. The tuning commenced on the latest, seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf and it's all thanks to some German tuning firm, ABT Sportsline.

In addition to a wide body kit developed for this generation as well as the available 18 or 19-inch rims, the engine choices on the new Golf were tuned specifically from ABT. So on the 1.2 TSi engine, this beefs from 85 to 105PS. On the 1.4 TSi engine, the power output is bumped from 140 to 165PS. And on the 1.6 TDi, this goes from 180 to 210PS.

Scoop: http://www.auto-news.de/tuning/anzeige_Abt-Sportsline-tunt-den-neuen-VW-Golf-Die-glorreiche-Sieben_id_33090

The best Golf in Forza 4?

Which Golf is the best?

Hello, and back with some more then and now comparison on Forza Motorsport 4 and this time I'm figuring to find out which is the best Golf on this game. Sadly though, there is no Golf I GTi here but the Rabbit GTi offered on this game...well, some people say this is the North American equivalent of the European Golf I GTi. Anyway,  let's get cracking, figuring out which is the best Golf on this game...

Are the annotations on? That's right because the lap times are there...

Rabbit GTi

Golf GTi Mk2




Golf GTi VR6 Mk3



Golf IV R34



Golf GTi Mk5



Golf VI GTi



Golf VI R



Now, I have the results...


VW Rabbit GTi: 1:40.426
VW Golf GTi Mk2: 1:37.521
VW Golf GTi VR6 Mk3: 1:36.069
VW Golf IV R32: 1:30.293
VW Golf V GTi: 1:32.457
VW Golf VI GTi: 1:32.891
VW Golf VI R: 1:29.063

So...so...by such research, the best Golf on Forza Motorsport 4 is the 2010 Volkswagen Golf R because...well, I was gonna say quicker than the old R32 Golf or the GTi but hey, I was right. I was gonna think that comparing different generations of the Golf will serve as the send-off because next month, the Volkswagen Golf compact gets regenerated. Yep, it will be regenerated into a new Golf using the MQB platform....

Welcome Back: 2010 Volkswagen Golf GTi MK6 and 2010 Volkswagen Golf R

In XTM's Top Gear Korea, the standard Volkswagen Golf VI served as the reasonably priced car. Guests include Alex, Ahn Jae-Mo, Ryu Soo-Young, Boom, Ha Ha, Tony, Song Sun Mi, Huh Gak, and others pushed the Golf too hard to get their best possible lap times. Even Top Gear Korea host and touring car racer, Kim Jin Pyo, pushed this too hard. Surely, there will be more Korean celebs pushing the Golf for the top of the Top Gear Korea track.

These cars though, are not the Volkswagen Golf but rather they are Volkswagen Golfs with new brains and pumped up muscles. They started out in life as the Volkswagen Golf VI but since then, both of them are sport oriented for the enthusiasts in mind.

This is the Golf GTi...

...and this is the Golf R.

First was the Volkswagen Golf VI GTi, it still has the legendary GTi heritage dating back in the 70's and it's pumped up with the 2.0L engine that produces 210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) of power, 280 N·m (207 lb·ft) of torque, 0-60mph time of 6.9 seconds and top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph). Surely, the GTi is one heck of a popular choice for the Volkswagen fans worldwide not only because of its heritage, but also for its sensible performance. It was one of my favorite Volkswagens ever made but when it comes to performance, I think the Golf VI GTi never won my heart because there was one kind of Golf that really won my heart because it was much of a tamed version of the GTi.

The Golf VI R is known to be the most powerful Golf ever made thanks to its improved 2.0L TSi engine that produces 270 PS (199 kW; 266 hp) of power, 350 N·m (258 lb·ft) of torque, 0-60m time of 5.7 seconds and top speed limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). What's surprising that the Golf R is packed with the 4Motion all-wheel drive system that no longer requires a difference in speeds between the front and rear axles thanks to some electric pump is used to build pressure. This car then really eat my Golf GTi Mk6 for breakfast but how? Let's compare both of these with a little time attack at the Top Gear Test Track...

Our Golf GTi Mk6 did it in 1:32.891 while the Golf VI R did it in 1:29.063 so on paper then, the Golf R really is quicker than the Golf GTi with such a huge gap to fill it in by other cars. But still, I can't deny that both the GTi and the R really worked out their magic of being track wolves in sheep's clothing. They may be mild but menacing.

A Tale of Two R's

Song played in my Personal BGM: Do We Rock by Point Break

From the album: Apocadelic

A duel happened at the Top Gear Test Track

GT5's 2nd DLC Pack offered me the two familiar faces that is somewhat derived from a rival video game but they're new to Gran Turismo 5. The Volkswagen Golf R and the Volkswagen Scirocco R, two familiar faces of different proportions have arrived on Gran Turismo 5 and it's up to me to find out why.

I am surely familiar about the Volkswagen Scirocco R, from the way it looks and behaves as a German hyper hatch, with weight as its beneficiary. On the Golf R, it is benefited with the 4WD system, despite what I'm looking now is the 5-door version of the Golf R. Still, even though GT5 brought in the 5-door Golf R with the steering wheel set on the JDM side (same goes to the Scirocco R, because the steering wheel is set on the JDM side), it has been proven to be somewhat neck-and-neck between the Scirocco R. But with the 4WD, the Golf R is slightly heavier than the Scirocco R. No matter, they're still them.

Imagine if you put these two on a DUEL, who would win? The Golf R? Or the Scirocco R? Which is better? You decide...

Volkswagen Golf VI GTI - Forza 3 Owner's View

Golf VI GTI in New York

We may know that this is the one
from the TV advert

Golf VI GTI at the Nurburgring GP

FINAL IMPRESSIONS: One of Volkwagen's legendary masterpieces, the Golf GTi, is on its sixth generation and it was launched since 2009. I always want to try that kind of GTi until when Forza 3 arrived, I finally got the urge to try out the Volkswagen Golf VI GTi.

It feels, sounds, and runs just like the real thing. As time goes by, it seems there are only a few people driving the Golf VI GTi on this game, probably because they are switching to a more powerful Golf called the Golf R, which is also offered on this game. Now what should I do with the Golf VI GTi?

Volkswagen Golf Mk6 Cabriolet

2012 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet

The return of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is just the perfect timing for young European drivers wanted to go out for the long European summer getaway. It targets the Renault Megane III Coupe-Cabriolet as a formidable rival but the Golf Cabriolet, based on the Golf Mk6, is just a bit too fat to look at it because it was something bland to think about the newest offering.

The Golf Mk6 Cabriolet might seem to be classified as a coupe-cabriolet as the Eos but when you're closing the top, the Golf Mk6 Cabriolet wears a soft-top rather than a hard-top like the Volkswagen Eos. It has been done because of the classic tradition of the Golf Cabriolets wearing the same soft-top roof. Despite its soft-top roof, the Golf VI Cabriolet provided a world-class silence, making it the quietest of its class, allowing it to withstand against over 5000 Hz of wind noises. The soft-top roof on the new Golf Cabriolet opens at 9 seconds and closes at 11 seconds, making it the quickest cabriolet to open and close, just like the Lexus IS250C and the Renault Wind.

The Golf VI Cabriolet can be personalized with a host of packs available to suit your needs such as the "Performance," "Design & Style," "Comfort," "Technology," "Light & Sight", "Mirror" and "Winter" packs. The Design & Style pack and the Performance pack are highly recommended to bring out the best on the Golf Cabriolet's exterior. It's up to you to choose which pack is best suitable on your new Golf Cabriolet.

Available engine types on the Golf Mk6 Cabriolet:
1) 1.2 TSI with 77 kW / 105 PS (entry-level)
2) 1.4 TSI with 90 kW / 122 PS
3) 1.4 TSI with 118 kW / 160 PS
4) 2.0 TSI with 155 kW / 210 PS
5) 1.6 TDI with 77 kW / 105 PS
6) 2.0 TDI with 103 kW / 140 PS

BlueMotion models will feature the innovative idling stop system that brings and engine to a complete stop when stopped at the red light, providing efficiency and low fuel consumption when you need it. Battery regeneration is also included in BlueMotion variants, henceforth that the Golf Cabriolet BlueMotion has the micro hybrid technology installed and when braked, the battery regenerates. A key feature to bringing the Golf Cabriolet to its eco-car status.

Choices of a 6-speed and 7-speed DSG transmission is a commodity for the new Golf Cabriolet. Beginners can choose the 6-speed DSG while advanced drivers can choose the 7-speed DSG as their desire to push it further beyond the autobahn for all.

Nine exterior colors are available on the new Golf Cabriolet such as Pure White, Dark Purple Metallic, Night Blue Metallic, Reflexsilber Metallic, Shark Blue Metallic, Sunset Red Metallic, Tungsten Silver, United Grey Metallic, and Deep Black Perleffekt.

My Comment:
The classic just got remastered and guess what, most of the features from the previous Golf I Cabriolet and Golf III Cabriolet gotten themselves a "TRANSFARRING" treatment and passed it on to the Golf VI Cabriolet as the donor. The new Golf VI Cabriolet might seem to be a late arrival but it's going to be an instant classic.

Photo: Volkswagen AG

Volkswagen Golf Sports Line-up

It's not surprising why because of all such issues happened to Toyota Motor Corporation (such as the withdrawal from the Formula one Championship, and the Noriko Sakai drug incident which her Toyota Noah commercial was revoked on the TV sets), the Japanese automaker was dethroned by the brand behind the Beetles, Polos, and Golfs, Volkswagen. While Volkswagen gained the crown as the world's number one automaker, let this brand show you the three devils of the Golf hatchback, the first carrying the legendary sports marque, the second carrying a sporty marque too but having a diesel engine, and the third is the ultimate form of the Golf hatchback. These three sporty variants come in either 3-door or 5-door that suits the devil in the driver.




Let's begin with the GTI, the first sports line of the Golf hatchback line-up. While retaining the legendary red-lined grille with the GTI on the left side, the performance of the GTI is somewhat legendary, thanks to the 2.0L engine that delivers over 200PS of power with the top speed of 240km/h. The GTI comes with the 6-speed manual transmission or the 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox.




Appearing on the Golf hatchback line-up is the brother of the Golf GTI; meet the Golf GTD, the sportiest Golf armed with the sportiest diesel turbo engine that carries two litres and it delivers a power output of 170PS with the top speed of 222km/h.




Now exploding on the scene is the successor of the previous Golf V R32, only this time, it doesn't carrying the "32" marque on it. The name simply called "Golf VI R" , the ultimate Golf ever built. With the aggressive styling, unique "R" badge on the left side of the grille, and its similarity to the Scirocco R, the new R is equipped with the 270PS, 2.0-litre engine that has an outstanding top speed of 250km/h. That was 10km/h more than the Golf GTI.

WILL THESE THREE KEEP IT UP?
While Volkswagen taking the lead as the world's largest automaker, these three sporty Golf line-up are sure to fire up the driver's adrenaline for some more action, more speed, and more thrills on the road. The GTI might seem to be basic for a car enthusiast, the GTD can be a pleasant alternative to the GTI, and the R can be a big thriller on the road. Combine all three and it is a German roller coaster ride to Hell.

Photo: Volkswagen Group