GTI is Next in Line.

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Good news, fellow GTI fans!

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Already, news about the mkVI GTI start to hit the web. Autocar states that the new GTI is to be launched just a few months after the standard hatchback hits the market. Spring 2009 is the current expected release date but Volkswagen might surprise us all with a concept version of the GTI due to be unveiled this October at the 2008 Paris Autoshow, very much like what they did when the mkV Golf was presented at the 2003 IAA in Frankfurt.

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Apparently, Volkswagen is keen on closing the gap between the GTI and the recently introduced new Scirocco. Expect this new GTI to keep much of the mkV's hothatch credentials with a little bit extra pepper to spice up the sportiness of the new car, with a better steering and handling.

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The mkVI GTI will feature a new 211 hp turbocharged 2.0 litre engine with a valve-lift system recently developed by Volkswagen's sister company Audi.

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A looker? Oh yes! Expect the GTI to feature its own unique look with exclusive front and rear bumpers, as well as different head and tail lights both with Audi-inspired LED technology. The car will roll on standard 18'' alloys but 19'' will be avaiable as an optional feature.

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R32 fans out there... bad news! Apparently there wont be a VR6 R version of the mkVI. Instead, plans are for introducing a four-wheel drive R variant with a 265 hp version of the GTI's engine.

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