The first GTI emblem is chrome and intentionally presents a stark contrast with the black Volkswagen logo. “Even with the original GTI, all the design elements already reflect a clear attitude,” says GTI designer Marco Pavone. He and his team were set the demanding challenge of designing the new GTI. The early Golf 1 GTI can be identified by the narrow bumper. These were replaced in 1978 by broader, plastic-covered bumpers. The compact “car in a sports suit” unleashes a magical 110 PS at 6,100 rpm (and weighing just 800 kilograms).
Golf 2 GTI Greater width, individuality and comfort “The design of the second generation of Golf GTI is a fascinating development,” says Pavone. Initially sporting twin headlights, like its predecessor, the 16V version of the second generation of Golf GTI came with integrated fog lights from 1988 – each located next to the front headlights. The front grille is still outlined in red, while the bumper itself also features a red GTI line. Under this, for the first time, comes an additional air inlet. On the whole, it continues the conceptual course of the first generation: it is larger, wider and more comfortable – and, in the case of the GTI G60, generates up to 160 PS. The raw power is also clear to see from the dynamic exterior. The chrome GTI 16V logo, usually aligned to the right, is replaced by a red G60 on the left side. Gone are the eleven delicate lines of its predecessor’s radiator grille, to be replaced by four thicker bars. The Volkswagen logo remains black.
Refined look and front grille in same colour as car
Golf 3 GTI The grown-up sports compact Generation three of the GTI is somewhat softer and has even more of a wedge shape. “This backs up the sporty character of the Golf GTI,” Pavone explains. The front features a striking modification: the double headlamps of the second generation of GTI disappear under a combined diffuser lens, replaced by a collective diffuser.