JUST HOW GOOD IS THE GOLF GTI TCR?

There has been a lot of hype about the new limited edition GTI TCR that was unveiled a few months ago, but just how good is it in the Golf lineup?

Volkswagen's Golf GTI has always been the flagship of their performance hot hatchbacks but, over the years, the demand for something a little bit faster and a little bit better has always been itching.

The Golf GTI TCR – or Touring Car Racer – is an up-rated version of the current Golf GTI 7.5, which is actually the entry-level of the Golf GTI range. But, as we know, the TCR was never intended to be the most outrageous nor the fastest Golf out there, if that was your intention, you might as well go straight for the all-wheel-drive Golf R.

Aside from all the cosmetic differences, much like the GTI ClubSport the GTI TCR packs quite a punch with its tuned 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine. Also, a newly designed stainless steel exhaust works together to push out 286bhp, that's an additional 44bhp to the standard GTI.

This, to be honest, does not sound like much of a big deal, but where the GTI TCR comes alive is on the track. The stability and traction control have been calibrated perfectly to deliver the best experience when cutting through those corners and, to help with your track times, the brakes have received a full upgrade and provide sufficient cooling due to their design.

Take a look at this video below to find out all about the Golf GTI TCR: