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Pros: quality, enhanced chassis, better interior
Cons: all hot hatches are expensive now
Volkswagen Golf GTI Design
There are plenty of detail changes to the exterior of the Golf, though most people won’t appreciate them at a glance as it’s still unmistakable for anything else on the market. That’s especially true of the GTI with its bold badging and red pinstriping, not to mention the suggestive twin exhaust outlets at the back. We love the chequered flag motif in the front fog lights, and that’s complemented by new LED lighting technology and detailing front and rear. There are tasty new alloy wheels to drool over as well.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Interior
A glance inside confirms that the GTI’s characteristic tartan-like upholstery is present and correct (though it’s a new design and material) as is the red-and-black high-performance theme. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is as good to hold as ever, and we’re glad to see the return of actual buttons to press on its spokes in place of the misguided touch-sensitive controls that went before.
More improvements to the ergonomics can be found under the new (and much larger and more impressive) touchscreen in the centre of the car, as the sliders controlling the cabin temperature and stereo volume are now illuminated at night. The infotainment system itself is also much improved and noticeably faster to respond. It’s complemented by excellent digital instrumentation with several different selectable designs.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Performance & Drive
The core recipe for the GTI’s mechanicals is unchanged, but Volkswagen has allowed its engineers to massage and enhance it throughout. The 2.0-litre, turbocharged petrol engine remains, for example, but peak power has been increased on the entry-level version to 265hp, while maximum torque is quoted as 370Nm. The only gearbox option – sadly – is a seven-speed DSG automatic, though it works slickly, allowing a decent 5.9-second 0-100km/h time.
Traction – especially on the exit of tight corners – is aided by an electronically controlled differential, while variable-ratio steering makes the car feel agile in the bends without any nervousness at motorway speeds.
Indeed, when fitted with the upgraded adaptive damping system, the GTI is better than ever at covering all the bases, allowing the driver to choose rock solid body control one minute, or softer damping the next to cope with poor road surfaces. This car is as at home on a circuit for a track day as it is in daily driving duties. It’s even moderately economical on a long run if you can resist the allure of its performance.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Pricing
Like all performance cars that aren’t electric, the Golf GTI has become a lot more expensive to buy than it ever has been. The new model starts at €57,750 as shown here and the forthcoming Clubsport variant will be more again. On the flip side, the GTI is comprehensively well-equipped these days.
Carzone Verdict
Through a sensible programme of updates, the new Golf GTI is distinctly better to drive than its predecessor, while retaining the core character of the model that has made it such a hit through the years. This could well be the last petrol-only Golf GTI so if you’re a fan, now’s the time to put your money where your mouth is. You won’t be disappointed.