VW releases design sketches for concept GTI to be unveiled in Worthersee

The Design Vision GTI is based on the Mk7 Golf GTI and the concept transfers the design and power potential of the iconic hot hatch to the world of racing. Drawn under the watchful eye of Klaus Bischoff, Volkswagen's Head of Design, the new car's most striking features are the C-pillars and side sills which have been extended out as autonomous body element, allowing for a substantially wider track and larger wheels. 

Using the flexibility of the versatile MQB platform, the Design Vision GTI has a long wheelbase and short front overhangs. It measures 4,253mm long, stands 1,385mm tall and sits 1,870mm wide - 15mm shorter in length, 57mm shorter in height and 71mm narrower in width than the stock GTI.

The wide low stance highlights the car's track capabilities, while unique 20-inch wheels and ceramic brake discs complete the racing style. Many of the car's external design features are executed in a more extreme manner.

The honeycomb grille, black, red and white colour scheme and horizontal red line details are still present. The lights in the headlamp unit are set back deep into the bonnet, giving the car 'eyes' with a menacing appearance.In the cabin the back seat space is compromised by a rigid X-shaped cross member under which you will find two black helmets.

An onboard camera in the car and a facility allows the driver to network with a social community from the car. A large display to the right of the main instruments shows the circuit being driven as well as lap times achieved. The display also communicates with other vehicles on the course and calculates details about the current status of the race in real time.

The Design Vision GTI is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 TSI engine which produces 496bhp and 560Nm of torque. All that power is channelled to the tarmac via a DSG gearbox to all four wheels. The trademark century dash is complete in a decent 3.9 seconds.