The upcoming 2023 SEMA Show (October 31 – November 3) is poised to unveil a plethora of remarkable Euro-inspired builds. Among these, a heavily customized VW Golf GTI Mk6 will take center stage, featuring the Alkoto Concepts widebody kit designed for the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R Mk6, offering a striking aesthetic reminiscent of the GTI TCR touring car.
Steven Nadaskai, the mastermind behind this widebody kit, is no newcomer to the prestigious Las Vegas event. Notably, he collaborated with Tyler Cordura to craft a distinctive purple Porsche Cayman fitted with a Karma widebody for the SEMA Battle of the Builders’ Young Guns competition in 2022.
Last year marked the beginning of Steven’s journey in developing the Alkoto Concepts widebody kit, a project he intends to debut at SEMA 2023 on his personal Mk6 VW Golf GTI. Details of this project car will be further explored below.
As of the current update, the builder has unveiled renderings showcasing the kit’s final design, accompanied by glimpses of his SEMA-bound prototype vehicle, which, like many similar builds, remains a work in progress at this stage.
Alkoto Concepts TCI Racer-look Widebody Kit for the Mk6 Golf GTI and Golf R
The SEMA build will showcase an array of performance hardware, including a VW 2.5L 07K five-cylinder engine equipped with a substantial turbocharger and standalone ECU. Complementing this setup are coilovers, a racing steering column, and a stripped-down interior featuring a roll cage, among other modifications.
Given the builder’s profound admiration for the VW Group, numerous details in the build reflect this passion. Notably, a customized early Lamborghini Gallardo exhaust manifold has been incorporated to accommodate the aftermarket-turbocharged VW 07K 2.5L five-cylinder engine, creating an association with the famed Lamborghini 5.0L V10 powerplant.
Regarding the choice of the Volkswagen 07K 2.5L five-cylinder over the more conventional VW 2.0L turbo-four, Stevan emphasizes the advantages, particularly when turbocharging the former. These include the enhanced auditory experience of the 2.5L engine and the potential cost savings, although the investment in turbo components may offset this benefit.
The transmission is upgraded to the 02Q GTI six-speed manual, featuring a twin ceramic clutch disc to accommodate the increased torque. Braking performance is augmented with the installation of Brembo 17Z six-piston calipers at the front and aftermarket drilled and slotted discs.
Looking ahead, as Volkswagen plans to introduce Golf GTI and Golf R badges for ID electric hot hatchbacks, enthusiast builds like this one are poised to become even more noteworthy in the automotive landscape.