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Gran Turismo 6 Video Game Inspired VW GTI Roadster Makes Appearance At 2014 LA Auto Show

From a video game to reality, Volkswagen is showing off the physical interpretation of the digital GTI Roadster at the 2014 Los Angeles International Auto Show. The radically different two-set convertible sports car is sure to wow the crowds.

The VW GTI Roadster is the result of a design competition inside of Volkswagen and was created digitally for the “Grand Turismo 6” video game. VW says the car was built on the same Modular Transverse Matrix architecture which underpins the new Golf, Golf GTI and Golf R models.

For the sports car, VW gave it a 3.0L V6 twin-turbocharged TSI engine which produces 503 HP and a whopping 413 lb.-ft. of torque between 4,000-6,000 RPMs. From the start to 2,000 RPMs, it provides 369 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is mated to a seven-speed, DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission with a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system.

The lightweight, 3,133 pound sports car sits on 20-inch wheels and tires, and VW estimates it will go 0 to 60 MPH in 3.5 seconds with a top track speed of 192 MPH. On the outside, the roadster was aerodynamically optimized with the track and sports car driver in mind. In fact, the driver sits at the same height and perspective of a formula race car. The note of the prominent large rear wing, which captures is the most visual feature on the car. This wing creates the downforce needed to keep traction on the track at high speeds. Also, visually appealing, is a rear spoiler which gives the appearance of a wing hovering behind the roadster.

Adding to its wow factor are distinctive contoured doors which swivel up and forward plus heavily flared wheelarches. It is also decorated throughout with distinctive badges and emblems.

The Roadster is painted with a radiant, intensive red metallic color which is a new interpretation of the classic Golf GTI “Tornado Red” color. The new color is called Gran Turismo Red.

Rounding out the coolness factor are the 20-inch Golf GTI centerlock aluminum-alloy wheels with body-color elements. They are also 8.5J wide at the front and 9.5J wide in the back with 235/35 ZR20 front and 275/30 ZR20 rear tires.

With its impressive speed, VW improved the brakes as well with 15.0-inch diameter front and 14.0-inch diameter rear brakes.

From the front, VW says the roadster looks like a Golf GTI expect from the future. It also uses a three-dimensional design with bumper elements which “appear to hover” and a splitter that is designed to create more downforce. On the track, this front end is unmistakable and the closer you get the more pronounced the wedge-shaped air scoop becomes.

Polishing off the exterior is a continuation of the carbon blades from the front which create aerodynamically optimized air ducts. A rear diffuser is highlighted by metal slats and two low-slung rear lights. Above the diffuser is a trapezoidal dual exhaust tailpipes complete with GTI badging.

On the inside, the driver and passenger sit in a carbonfiber “monocoque” (a single shell construction technique that utilizes the exterior skin to support some or most of the load). The two sides are partitioned by an open bar that ascends from the rear to the front. For seats, VW added two race-style buckets seats covered in Alcantara and placed low. The Alcantara wrapped steering wheel is mounted on a very long, exposed steering column typical of race cars.

It also features an illuminated rotary light switch and paddle shifters to keep the driver’s hands on the wheel.

Interior colors and materials were mixed on purpose with the traditional GTI red used in some interior accents and the rest decked out in Black or Anthracite. Most decorative elements were eliminated in favor of a more focused look.

Tim is a married father of three living in Western Nebraska. He spends a lot of time reading, writing and talking cars/trucks with fans, insiders and manufacture reps. When he isn't talking about cars, he is usually out playing golf - a never ending obsession to see how far the little white ball will fly.

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