GARAŽA forum

The base Mark VII GTI and Golf R use XDS+ to control left/right wheelspin. This selectively brakes the spinning wheel, transferring torque to the opposite wheel.

The VAQ differential in the Performance Pack GTI uses a single Haldex-type clutch pack to essentially brake either spinning front wheel. The overall principle is similar to XDS+ but uses a clutch pack which can be finely modulated. VAQ is computer-controlled, so the ECU can evaluate all other vehicle sensors and decide how best to use VAQ vs XDS+ vs stability control.

The VAQ can transmit 100% of engine torque to either front wheel, vs a Torsen-type LSD which can typically only transfer about 75% of torque to the non-spinning wheel. Likewise a conventional clutch-type LSD has an even lower bias ratio, often equating to around 62% torque transfer.

The Golf R uses a similar Haldex-type clutch pack to modulate front/rear torque, but left/right torque uses XDS+ just like the GTI.

The VAQ diff on the PP GTI looks very impressive. It is proven faster on the race track. I suspect in various sporty street situations it will feel more natural than the non-PP car, mainly when accelerating hard in a sharp turn. However the improved Mark VII XDS+ works fairly well in many street driving situations.

Though official figures haven’t been revealed yet, the Linea-sourced, 1.4-litre T-Jet engine is believed to have been stoked up to produce 145 bhp, while torque is likely to be over 196 Nm. The suspension has also been stiffened up, and the ride height has been lowered by 20mm. With added power comes added responsibilities, so Fiat has equipped the Abarth Punto with disc brakes all around and beefier 195/55 R16 Apollo tyres. The interior retains the all-black theme from the Punto Evo 90HP but uses different seat fabrics and gets red and yellow contrast stitching.