The Golf GTI remains a sporty four-door hatchback, but its controls are very distracting.
The 241-hp, 2.0-liter turbo-four pulls strongly with immediate throttle response and an invigorating engine sound contributing to the enjoyable driving experience.
Unfortunately, there is no more manual transmission, only a quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
The car has agile handling and the ride is fairly refined, while the cabin stays reasonably quiet.
The interior is well finished, and the seats have supportive side bolsters.
The new 12.9-inch infotainment screen is more responsive than the previous system, but is still distracting to use.
The all-wheel-drive Golf R has considerably more power and handling capability.
The redesigned 2022 Volkswagen GTI builds on the long-running tradition of elevating a mild hatchback into a fun-to-drive, yet sophisticated, practical alternative to sports coupes.
The GTI's improvements aim to sharpen the handling, up the power and upgrade connectivity and infotainment.
The new GTI is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Power has increased to 241 horsepower.
The 2022-2024 GTI models came standard with a six-speed manual transmission.
A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, which was optional for 2022-2024 models, became the only transmission option for 2025.
Older models come with a large 10-inch infotainment screen, while 2025 models get a new 12.9-inch display.
The interior can be dressed with plaid upholstery-a nice historic nod to the original GTI.
FCW, AEB, BSW, and RCTW are standard.
The GTI is one of the most practical choices among sporty cars.
It's quiet, civilized and doesn't wear you out on long drives.
The interior is very well finished, with luxurious materials, comfortably supportive seats and a comprehensive, yet easy-to-use infotainment system.
The basic S model gives you a lot of bang for the buck.
It's well equipped and doesn't lack for essential features.
The only practical reason we'd opt for a more expensive version is to get the HID headlights, as they perform much better than the standard halogens.
You can get the better lights on an S model, but only with an automatic.
Updates for 2016 included optional forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot warning, all of which became standard in 2020.
This redesign of the GTI brought modest changes.
The four-cylinder Golf R adds more power and all-wheel-drive.
The GTI excels at combining everyday practicality with being fun-to-drive.
Agile handling, gutsy acceleration and a satisfying sound come with comfort and refinement.
Remarkably, the GTI retains most of the civilized demeanor of other Golf models, making it suitable for everyday driving, while still bringing a smile to the face of a driving enthusiast.
The hatchback adds versatility.
Fit and finish are very good.
The seats are supportive and sporty, yet comfortable.
Stability control, traction control, antilock brakes and brake assist are standard equipment.
The GTI is a sporty version of the Golf.
Since 1999, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine has powered most GTI models.
The sporty VW hatchback is a credible alternative to a sports sedan, with capable handling, a relatively comfortable ride, a well-crafted interior and a surprisingly roomy back seat.
Special limited-production R32 versions have a V6 and all-wheel-drive.
These one-year-specials appeared in 2004 and again in 2008.
A four-door version of the GTI became available in 2007.
The Golf exudes a feeling of precision and solidity unusual for a small car.
It is available in 3- and 5-door hatchback body styles and GTI trim line marketed as a sporty alternative to standard Golfs.
A responsive four cylinder provided base power, but a stronger V6 was available in top GTI models.
The Golf was redesigned for 1999, and became quieter and more comfortable, with a higher-quality interior.
A turbocharged four-cylinder engine was introduced a year later.
The R32, a V6-powered AWD model, arrived for 2004.
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