ABT Breathes Final Farewell to VW Golf 6 GTI with "Last Edition"
As a testimony to its rich heritage that stretches back to 1976, the VW Golf GTI has always been the beating heart of sporty, nimble, and exciting compact cars. ABT, a renowned tuning company, has been pivotal in amplifying this dynamic persona right from the inception of the GTI brand. Each generational evolution of the GTI has enjoyed a distinctive touch from ABT, and the sixth-gen model is no exception. In a fitting curtain call for this series, ABT presented the "Last Edition" at the Essen Motor Show, much to the delight of GTI enthusiasts and performance car lovers alike.
Revisiting the Powerhouse
The ABT Golf GTI Last Edition isn't just about aesthetics; under the hood, it harbors substantial modifications that escalate the driving experience. By optimizing engine management (ABT POWER), the standard 211 HP (155 kW) GTI engine was supercharged to 260 HP (191 kW). Going further with the ABT POWER S package, a new turbocharger is added into the mix. This propels the 2.0 TSI to an impressive 300 HP (221 kW), and even further to 310 HP (228 kW) and 400 Nm with the series version featuring 235 HP (173 kW) and 300 Nm. Lowered by 25 mm with ABT chassis springs, the Last Edition flaunts a lower center of gravity, promising a more engaging and spirited drive, particularly on winding roads. And for those thrilling moments when the speed needs to be reined in, ABT's powerful braking system, with its 345 mm discs, offers reassuring stopping power.
The GTI Dons Its ABT Attire
But the 'ABT' treatment isn't limited to the mechanical bits. The visual aspect of the Golf GTI Last Edition also reflects its sporty intent. The bodywork package, meticulously crafted by ABT's designers, accentuates the car's dynamic nature from every angle. The ensemble consists of a rear spoiler, rear skirt add-on, side skirts, front grill and skirt, and a diagonally mounted 4-pipe exhaust system. A front lip, complemented by the ABT Daytime Running Lights, adds to the performance-oriented aesthetics. The ensemble is tastefully finished in a deep metallic black paint job, contrasted by vibrant red accents, reinforcing the model's undying sporty appeal.
Signing Off, But Not Forgotten
The ABT Golf GTI Last Edition is more than just a final edition of a beloved model; it's a fitting tribute to a lineage that has held a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts for over three and a half decades. Being showcased at the Essen Motor Show, the Last Edition is priced attractively, making it a hard-to-resist proposition for GTI devotees. It's not just about ABT and GTI; it's about the bond that these six letters have forged over the years, proving yet again that they truly belong together.
