Superchips Golf VI GTI Engine Upgrade Presented

Volkswagen took a different approach with its Golf R, as the Germans ditched the 3.2 liter V6 engine for a more powerful version of the 2 liter turbocharged engine. This might be dangerous territory as tuners are already challenging the Golf R with tweaked Golf GTIs.

Superchips is one of the tuners which worked on the GTI's engine management system. The changes were confirmed by using the firm's in house chassis dynamometer and extensive road testing. Their aim was not only to boost power, but also create a more responsive engine.

According to Superchips, their work on the ECU map improved the Golf's response. In figures, Superchip's work increased the MkVI Golf GTI's power by 25 bhp, while torque jumps by 47 lb.ft. If that’s still not enough power for you, opt for the Superchip's Bluefin upgrade which offers 44 bhp more at 4,737 rpm and 53 lb.ft more at 4,450 rpm, while improving the flexibility and response of the converted Golf GTi MKVI.

Volkswagen says the GTI has 210 PS (208bhp) and 206 lb.ft, which means that a Superchip's upgraded car will get 233 bhp and 253 lb.ft. For comparison, the new £28,930 Golf R boasts 267 bhp and 258 lb.ft, meaning the Superchip's MKVI Golf GTi comes close to matching the ‘R' in terms of torque output.

The most important aspect is that the GTi weighs 1,271 kg, while the Golf R weights 1,475 kg, equating to a power to weight ratio of 183 bhp per ton for the Superchip's upgraded car, versus 181 bhp per ton for the ‘R.'