2014 VW Golf GTD Revealed

[AutoGuide.com]

Perhaps the perfect combination of fast and frugal, Volkswagen has unveiled its all-new Golf GTD model today ahead of its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

An unfamiliar badge in North America, the GTD is by all accounts a diesel version of the brand's GTI hot hatch. Based on the all-new and significantly lighter seventh-generation Golf platform it is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine making 182 hp and a huge 280 lb-ft of torque. While the 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds isn't exactly shockingly fast, this car is more about the responsiveness of the torquey diesel engine, with all of those lb-ft available at just 1750 rpm.

SEE MORE: 2013 Geneva Motor Show Preview

Making it a superior commuter car for long distances it showcases the usual Volkswagen premium interior, which you can enjoy on the highway mile after mile as you won't be stopping for fuel. VW claims the car gets an astonishing 67 mpg with the 6-speed manual transmission Using the 6-speed DSG automatic drops that slightly to 60 mpg.

Apart from the engine, other highlights include 17-inch wheels with 225/45 tires, a GTI-like aero kit with chrome dual exhaust pipes, a rear spoiler and a sports suspension package. Inside, the upgrades carry on the GTI look with a sports steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, a GTD gear shifter and instrument cluster plus the obligatory plaid seats.

Sound too good to be true? It is. Or at least it is if you don't live in Europe. Volkswagen has never offered past GTD models in North America though that could change with this latest model. Currently the German automaker has been loaning out a past generation GTD in the LA area to press, likely looking to test reaction to see if the US market is ready for such a car.

Look for live photos of the new MKVII Golf GTD when it makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

See more 2014 Volkswagen Golf GTD photos at AutoGuide.com

[Bdubskii]

Looks pretty sweet, and I could definitely use 60+ MPG. Hopefully the US actually gets some.. lol.

[VDubDan]

we should find a way to do a group buy!!!! lol

[BreadBaskett]

I hope this finds its way to the US

[Troy Jollimore]

A car I would DEFINITELY consider. It's a pretty safe bet it'll show up in the US. However, they haven't muttered a word about us Canadians getting any...