Thanks to these pictures sent in by regular contributor Anol Alias, we can now have a closer look at the Malaysian-bound Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk7 that we first had a peek at a few days ago. Volkswagen Group Malaysia has hinted to us that ‘something sporty’ is coming at the end of August. Put the two and two together and we now know when this GTI will be launched.
UPDATE: The VW Golf GTI Mk7 is now available in Malaysia. Read our test drive report here.
As confirmed above, the local-spec Golf GTI Mk7 will wear the uprated 18-inch Austin wheels, a step above the base 17-inch Brooklyns and one below the rubber band-tyred 19-inch Santiagos seen on the first promotional pictures. The use of standard rear lamps instead of the snazzier smoked LED items that are included in other markets is a curious omission.
Hiding behind the big wheels are plain red brake callipers without ‘GTI’ lettering, denoting that this is a standard 220 PS GTI sans the optional Performance pack. The latter raises maximum power to 230 PS (torque stays at 350 Nm) and adds beefier brakes and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. It won’t be available at launch, but may be introduced later on.
Peeking into the cabin, it looks like VGM is leaving very few boxes on the options list unticked. Top-spec 8.0-inch ‘Discover Pro’ navigation and radio system with integrated voice controls replace the local 1.4 TSI’s 5.8-inch ‘Composition Media’ unit. Black ‘Vienna’ leather upholstery is also present, along with ‘Cyclone’ black/grey trim panels on the dashboard and doors.
Chunky GTI sports steering with contrasting red stitching to match the bewinged seats take centre stage, and the foot pedals (just two of them, unfortunately) are now aluminium. You can just about make out the Dynamic Chassis Control (Driving Mode Selection) button by the six-speed DSG’s gear lever, as well as those for the auto start/stop, traction control and park distance control features.
From these pictures, it looks like only the keyless entry/push start button and sunroof options are left out of the local Golf GTI Mk7. If you were among those who thought that the Golf 1.4 TSI was under-specced (it’s really not, but it’s your prerogative), then perhaps this one will be up to your expectations.
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MAI Apprentice
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments highlight both excitement and skepticism about the VW Golf GTI Mk7, praising its refined driving experience, build quality, and design while expressing concern over reliability issues with DSG gearboxes and high maintenance costs. Many commenters compare it with competitors like the Mercedes A-Class, often favoring the latter for its styling, safety features, and perceived better reliability. There is also discussion about the potential pricing, with some expecting over RM200,000, and calls for offering a manual transmission option, which is currently unavailable in Malaysia. Several comments reflect a general preference for manual gearboxes and criticise VW's after-sales service and DSG reliability, while others emphasize the car's performance and design appeal. The overall sentiment balances admiration for the vehicle’s qualities with doubts about its affordability and long-term dependability.