The Golf GTI is unveiled at the IAA in Frankfurt in 1975. There, people marvel at such a discreetly packaged 81 kW (110 hp), generated by a 1.6-liter fuel-injected engine adopted from Audi, concealed in a compact body in Mars red and with an impressive power-to-weight ratio.

The GTI is available in two colors at launch: Diamond Silver metallic and Mars Red. The equipment is sporty: among other things, all chrome parts are replaced by black-painted components, the radiator grille bears the GTI lettering and is given the red surround. The headliner is jet black, as are the sun visors and carpets. The front spoiler is enlarged, and wide-base tires in the 175/70 HR 13 dimension are also fitted. The suspension is firmer and is lower (10 millimeters at the front, 20 millimeters at the rear), while stabilizers at the front and rear counteract lateral tilt. For connoisseurs, the abbreviation HR in the tire designation is a hidden hint: this car is guaranteed to go over 180 km/h! In the interior, there are sport seats shaped to fit the body with the familiar tartan, and the gears are shifted with the famous golf ball.

With this vehicle, Volkswagen offers an extremely appealing overall concept. The low fuel consumption and the low base weight of only 810 kilograms ensure high driving dynamics and convincing economy. Although the development team is initially quite skeptical, the GTI sells extremely well right from the start: a total of 462,000 units are produced between 1976 and 1983. The VW Golf GTI quickly achieves enthusiast status and celebrates success in international motorsport.