Volkswagen Australia will aim to introduce every facelifted Golf GTI model grade locally, including the new 180kW Performance in manual gearbox and three-door hatch trim.

The Mark 7.5 Golf GTI takes its 2.0-litre turbo four-pot from 162kW to 169kW, matching the outgoing Golf GTI Performance. That limited-slip differential-equipped model shifts to 180kW, although no torque figures have been given. Both currently produce 350Nm.

A new seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission replaces the six-speed unit currently in Golf GTI and R model grades.

2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI rear

Inside a new 9.2-inch colour touchscreen with gesture controls is a sizeable step up on the outgoing 6.5-in unit. A mammoth 12.3-in colour display ahead of the driver also replaces the analogue speedometer and tachometer of the current Golf GTI and R – although it’s unclear if either will make the standard or optional equipment list. Thankfully, tartan trim remains.

2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI dash

“That the Golf GTI 40 Years sold out in manual form almost before the cars arrived in the country sends a pretty strong message,” Volkswagen Australia corporate communications general manager Paul Pottinger told MOTOR.

2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI interior

He confirmed that includes reintroducing the three-door bodystyle that was available in 2005’s Mark 5 and 2009’s Mark 6 Golf GTI, but was ditched here with 2013’s Mark 7.

2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI driving

“Golf R has and will retain those strengths that make it unique,” added Pottinger.

“R has never been more successful – in fact it has outsold GTI at some points this year despite the steeper price.”