At a special event prior to the start of the Paris Motor Show, Volkswagen brought out the newest version of its classic hot hatchback, the GTI. While still being called a concept by VW, the new GTI looks ready for production.

The new model features styling cues that echo that of the Scirocco that debuted earlier this year in Geneva, yet keeps with the performance formula defined in the mid 1970s when GTI was introduced as a high-performance version of the Golf.

The GTI’s performance credentials come from specially tuned springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. For the first time the GTI will be available with Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) which comprises adjustable pneumatic dampers. The ACC features settings from normal to sport, adjusting the steering and throttle response as well as the ride. GTI will also feature an electronic limited slip differential for the first time along with electronic stability control.

U.S. specs were not yet available, but the GTI concept shown features a 2.0-liter, 210-horsepower TSI engine. Volkswagen claims the GTI will reach 62 mph in just over 7 seconds with a top speed of 148 mph, making it the fastest production GTI ever. While the TSI engine is more powerful, fuel economy has been increased and emissions have been lowered.

While styling is thoroughly modern, designers looked to tie the new GTI back to the original. This is most noticeable in the red grille surround and horizontal grille fins, both of which were seen on the first GTI. The side skirts, smoked-lens tail lights, dual chrome tail pipes and unique 18-inch wheels add to the high-performance look.

Inside the sixth-generation GTI features a flat-bottom steering wheel with distinctive red stitching, contoured sport seats, unique gauges and gloss black dashboard and door trim.

The new GTI is expected to go into production next spring.