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One of a half dozen Volkswagen Golfs unveiled today at the Geneva Motor Show, the GTD model is particularly noteworthy as until now its been forbidden fruit in America.

Set to go on sale in the US, likely later this year, it features all of what the GTI has to offer, with the exception of the turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine. In its place is a 2.0-liter diesel making 182 hp and a huge 280 lb-ft of torque, available from just 1750 rpm.

SEE ALSO: 2013 Geneva Motor Show Coverage

Helping this new GTD be even sportier is that fact that it rides on the all new seventh-generation Golf platform, which weighs 220 lbs less than the previous generation.

As mentioned, it’s fully outfitted with GTI-goodies, including similar bodywork, 17-inch wheels with 225/45/17 tires, dual exhaust pipes, a rear roof spoiler and a sports suspension. Inside the GTI theme continues, though with GTD branding on the shifter and gauges, plus there’s a sports steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and those trademark interlagos plaid seats.

Billed as a 2013 model in Europe, the new generation of Golfs will arrive in North America later this year as 2014 models. Look for the GTD to be priced at a premium beyond the already expensive TDI models which start at just over $24,000.

***UPDATE*** GTD fans will have to be patient as we’ve just learned the car isn’t scheduled to arrive until model-year 2015, which means it’s likely to go on sale some time next year ***UPDATE***

GALLERY: 2014 Volkswagen Golf GTD

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