Volkswagen today took the wraps off a pre-production version of the all-new GTI, based on the recent...

Volkswagen today took the wraps off a pre-production version of the all-new GTI, based on the recently redesigned Golf. Described as a concept, the GTI show car will be on display at the Paris Motor Show next month. In reality, it is almost identical to the production GTI that will arrive at European dealers in the spring.

The new GTI features a number of firsts for the range, including the option of Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) which comprises adjustable pneumatic dampers. Also for the first time, the GTI will be available with an electronic limited slip differential (XDS) linked to a sophisticated ESP (Electronic Stabilization Program) system.

Powered by a 2.0-liter 207 horsepower TSI engine, the new GTI is more powerful, yet also more fuel efficient, than its predecessor. Fuel consumption is estimated at 31.3 miles per U.S. gallon — an impressive figure for a car that can sprint to 62 mph in 7.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 148 mph.

Styling was handled by Walter de Silva (Director, Group Desig