2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI Evaluation, Pricing, and Specs

When deciding which GTI trim to purchase, the mid-level SE strikes us as the perfect worth. For an additional $800, the usual six-speed guide could be swapped for a seven-speed dual-clutch computerized. We favor to shift for ourselves, so we would keep away from the surcharge. In contrast with the entry-level trim, the SE provides a 480-watt Karman/Hardon audio system, a cool illuminated grille, enhanced infotainment options, and a sunroof. It will also be fitted with leather-based upholstery, ventilated entrance seats, and reminiscence settings for the motive force’s seat, however meaning ditching the GTI’s conventional fabric seats and their plaid design.

Engine, Transmission, and Efficiency

The 2022 Golf GTI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that develops 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. That is a rise of 13 horses and 15 pound-feet versus its predecessor, however that energy continues to be routed to the entrance wheels by means of both a typical six-speed guide transmission or an elective seven-speed dual-clutch computerized. We tested a GTI with the auto ‘box, which had good shifts and helped ship the hatch to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds–0.7 faster than a last-gen Rabbit edition with the automatic. Not solely is the brand new GTI faster in a straight line, we credit score its electronically managed limited-slip differential and brake-based torque vectoring for an uptick in leisure worth. In fact, the VW’s expertly tuned chassis deserves as a lot reward as ever, with its sharp responses and not-too-firm, not-too-soft journey high quality. The latter was skilled with the hatch’s extremely adjustable adaptive dampers and a set of 19-inch wheels (18-inchers are commonplace). Nothing places a damper on spirited driving like a mushy brake pedal, however the GTI offers agency suggestions and noteworthy stopping energy, halting the hatch from 70 mph in simply 151 ft.

Gasoline Financial system and Actual-World MPG

Probably the most environment friendly Golf GTI mannequin is the one with the automated transmission, which earned scores of 25 mpg metropolis and 34 mpg freeway. Choosing the six-speed guide reduces gasoline financial system within the metropolis by 1 mpg. Once we examined a Golf GTI with the automated on our 75-mph freeway gasoline financial system route, which is a part of our extensive testing regimen, it overperformed its EPA estimate and returned 38 mpg. For extra details about the Golf GTI’s gasoline financial system, go to the EPA’s website.

Inside, Consolation, and Cargo

Inside, the Golf GTI boasts a extra fashionable design than earlier than and a few conventional callbacks. The dashboard is dominated by two giant shows—a ten.3-inch gauge cluster and a ten.0-inch touchscreen—that share a piano-black bezel. The GTI’s three-spoke steering wheel boasts a closely contoured rim and touch-sensitive controls. Its bolstered entrance seats have pink accents round their outer edges and iconic plaid inserts on the highest and backside cushions. Sadly, not like the high-quality environs of the earlier era, the brand new inside is marred by some chintzy finishes. Seeing the street forward is improved by a decrease cowl, however we favor a easy set of analog gauges over the overly configurable digital setup. The brand new GTI grows by an inch total and sees its wheelbase stretch by 0.6 inches, which solely furthers its spectacular passenger lodging and cargo house.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The GTI’s infotainment system runs by means of a typical 10.0-inch touchscreen. Sadly, it is primarily operated by way of touch-sensitive sliders as an alternative of extra intuitive buttons and knobs. Together with a few charging ports, the system consists of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These acquainted cellphone apps and menu constructions will assist offset VW’s in any other case busy and doubtlessly distracting interface.

Security and Driver-Help Options

The GTI comes with a bunch of normal driver-assistance technology in addition to elective upgrades. Notably, VW’s IQ.Drive system is obtainable on all trims and, along with conventional options reminiscent of computerized emergency braking and lane-keeping help, consists of Emergency Help, which brings the automobile to a cease and activates the hazards within the absence of detected driver enter. For extra details about the Golf GTI’s crash-test outcomes, go to the Nationwide Freeway Site visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance coverage Institute for Freeway Security (IIHS) web sites. Key security options embrace:

• Customary automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Customary lane-departure warning and lane-keeping help
• Obtainable adaptive cruise management

Guarantee and Upkeep Protection

VW consists of an above-average restricted guarantee, however its powertrain safety trails behind most opponents. The corporate does sweeten the cope with complimentary scheduled upkeep that’s much like what Toyota presents.

• Restricted guarantee covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain guarantee covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary upkeep is roofed for 2 years or 20,000 miles

More Features and Specs