Golf VI by Abt to debut in Essen

Abt, the largest worldwide customiser of Volkswagen Group vehicles, introduce their sixth-generation re-working of the Golf, one which delivers a sporting body kit worthy of matching a host of Abt performance and further upgrades.

The new Abt Golf VI is available in a number of 'greener' powerplants. Hans Juergen Abt, managing director of the German firm, throws about the term 'downsizing' and is keen to point out that the upgrade incorporates VW's 1.4 TSI unit, available in two stages of expansion for optimum fuel efficiency and performance.

The standard 122 hp 1.4-litre is expanded to 160 hp while customers wishing to stretch the 'little engine' out further have the option of a 200 hp version - producing almost as much power as the series 2.0 TFSI powerplant but consuming less fuel. But if 1400cc is a little too conservative, then Abt have it covered: the 2.0 TFSI gets upgraded from 210 hp to 240 hp, with a more frugal offering in the form of a 30 hp-hiked 2.0 TDI model with 170 hp.

But the Abt upgrades span beyond the hood. Abt will happily fit vehicles with their Abt threaded suspension or sports springs, both of which are recommended for optimum power handling. Abt braking and sports braking systems provide deceleration suited to the performance hikes.

'An outstanding basis' for Abt, the sixth-gen new Golf also gets the full treatment by designers for a sporting but 'elegant' look. The enhanced presence is achieved via new front grill, new aprons front and rear (the latter with integrated 4-pipe exhaust), rear spoiler and perhaps principally the huge 18 or 19 inch alloys, available diamond-turned or high-gloss polished.