Virtual to reality: the VW GTI Roadster concept
A week ago, gaming fans were treated to the inclusion of what has been termed ‘the most spectacular GTI ever’, the VW GTI Roadster concept, in Gran Turismo 6. The annual GTI festival at Wörthersee, Austria, taking place from May 28 to 31, saw Volkswagen introduce this striking concept, bringing the virtual car to reality. The manufacturing giant’s German rivals, BMW and Mercedes, have previously contributed to Gran Turismo’s ‘Vision GT’ series, which prompted VW to create the concept which succeeds the 500bhp Golf GTI concept that they showcased at Wörthersee last year.
The design language is a progression of VW’s angular, dynamic lines. Sleek and low-slung, the open-top, two-seater GTI roadster concept stands on stylish 20-inch alloys shod with 235/35 ZR20 front and 275/30 ZR20 tyres.
The engine bay is where things get really interesting. Borrowed from the VW Touareg, the 3.0-litre V6 TSI (VW’s trademarked turbo-petrol direct injection technology) motor has been upgraded to produce 500bhp and 560Nm of peak torque between 4000 and 6000rpm. Tweaks enable this powerplant to produce a meaty 500Nm of torque all the way from 2000rpm. This motor, mated to a 7-speed DSG box transfers power to all four wheels via VW’s 4MOTION, making this 1420kg concept hit 100kmph in 3.6 seconds and reach a maximum velocity of 309kmph. Stopping power comes from 380mm front and 356 rear ceramic disc brakes.
While the concept may not ever make it to production, the GTI roadster will be available to Gran Turismo 6 players as a free download starting mid-June .
