Volkswagen Brazil first launched a sporty Rallye version of the Gol, Brazil’s best-selling model for the last 24 years, in 2004 during the third generation model run. The fourth generation launched in 2007 also included a Rallye version and now there’s a fifth generation edition as well.
The recipe is unchanged: increased ground clearance, external appliqués, side strips and a 1.6-litre engine no different from the less sporty versions in the Gol range.
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There are four competitors in this compact, looking-for-adventure category from Fiat, Renault, Ford and Citroën and VW also offers the CrossFox.
Between 2005 and 2010, this niche climbed from 2.5% to 5.5% of total compact hatchback sales, a market of some 70,000 units yearly.
The latest Gol Rallye also offers optional ‘robotised transmission’ [a Marelli automated manual unit with single automated clutch] for the first time. Ride height is 0.9in taller and 205/55R15 tyres add another 0.2in to the 6.7in ground clearance making the car suitable for light off-road use.
Springs and suspension dampers are calibrated accordingly, together with increased rolling resistance thanks to a stiffer front anti-roll bar.
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By GlobalDataIncidentally, Volkswagen was chosen the most admired brand in a survey of dealerships under the Fenabrave umbrella which covers 39 automakers’ associations and 6,194 dealers. The result was released at the recent Fenabrave congress in São Paulo.
