But now they have shown us the new Golf GTi we are much happier. The new Golf GTi will go on sale in early 2013 and is powered by a turbocharged 2 litre petrol engine with 220bhp.
Also, and this is quite exciting, buyers will be able to specify a 'performance pack' direct from the factory which boosts the power to 230bhp.
The standard GTi does 0-60mph in 6.6 seconds with a top speed of 153mph and the performance pack improves this slightly - 0-60 in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 155mph.
The performance pack includes enhanced brakes and a front axle diff-lock which reduces torque steer and understeer. A good thing.
Transmission is via a six speed manual or six speed DSG semi-automatic gearbox. Both models come with variable steering ratio - which will improve handling and feedback. This has the effect of reducing steering input at lower speeds but improving response at higher speeds.
The GTi is distinguished from it's lesser siblings with red brake callipers, honeycomb grille a golf ball gear knob and various other trinkets and bling. Oh, and it comes with 'tartan sports seats'. Take a look at the photos and make you're own mind up about the seats but we think even Jackie Stewart may think they are 'too tartan'.
VW may have lost their sense of direction with some more recent GTi's but they are really laying on the heritage aspect thickly now - harking back to early GTi's sells cars because people remember them fondly.
Pricing has yet to be released but we'll bring you details as and when they become available.
