4 motion... greater availability?

[Daz Auto]

Why is 4 motion not more widely available?

On the Audi range, there are more options for Haldex/Quattro.

Instead of a Golf GTI PP - why not have a Golf GTI 4 motion. The new A3 1.8 Quattro, with 190bhp, has better 0-60 performance than a Golf GTI and better fuel economy. That performance will be available for all drivers in all conditions!

I know there are plenty of powerful FWD VAG cars, but surely 4WD is the future of performance cars?

... just interested to hear peoples' opinions.

Edit: the Audi S1 has, I believe, the same engine as GTI with better 0-60 performance, because of the Haldex 4WD and it is a slightly lighter car. Though again, that performance will be available in all conditions.

[jjgreenwood]

GTI will always be FWD because that is it's heritage. VWUK has imported Golf GT TDI in 4motion variant before but it sold very badly as most didn't want to pay the extra for the 4motion system and take the hit on the fuel economy. Due to the bad sales of the diesel model they decided not to offer the 2.0FSI that was available at the time in 4motion and didn't bother in later model ranges. Other VW branded product could be available in 4motion but VWUK doesn't bother importing it because there is no demand, Passat sells on fuel economy and emissions, the Alltrack variants which do incorporate the technology don't sell very well in either Golf Estate or Passat Estate.

It seems that most VW customers in the UK buy a Tiguan if they want 4wd. VWUK feel their ranges have enough options without offering 4motion in more models and tbh I'd agree as offering 3dr and 5dr manual and auto in virtually every variant of golf & polo as well as several engine and trim options makes for a price list that has to be printed in size 6 font as it is.