The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a pioneer among hot hatchback cars. For the last 40 years, it has been well known as a compact car that makes driving fun. The new Volkswagen Golf GTI retains the qualities it is known for, however, you get updated exterior styling and modern interiors. The 2022 version is the eighth-generation Golf GTI model in the affordable car segment, with prices starting at $32,000.

Top features
The new Volkswagen Golf GTI offers a perfect blend of the dynamics of a sports sedan and the spaciousness of a hatchback.

The redesigned version tries to deliver more horsepower and torque while going for larger cargo. You can choose from three trims—S, SE, and Autobahn. Here is why the 2022 model is a great option for individuals and families:

Engine
The new Volkswagen Golf GTI has a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. It provides 241 horsepower to the front wheels with 273 lb-ft of torque. Compared with the previous model, it delivers an additional 13 hp, and the torque has been increased by 15 lb-ft. Buyers get a choice in transmission with the standard six-speed manual transmission and the optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Autobahn variant can achieve a speed of 60 mph in about 5.1 seconds. Additionally, the chassis of the new car is well-balanced.

Exterior
Compared with the previous models, minimal changes have been made to the exterior. However, the five-door hatchback seems to appear distinctively modern. The car is 70.4 inches wide and 168.8 inches long, with a height of 57.6 inches and a ground clearance of 4.7 inches. The weight is between 3,113 and 3,190 pounds. The new model is available in six vibrant colors. While you can choose from Atlantic Blue Metallic, Reflex Silver Metallic, and Deep Black Pearl at no additional cost, you may have to pay $395 for Kings Red Metallic, Moonstone Gray, and Oryx White. A seventh color, Pomelo Yellow Metallic color is offered in the Autobahn variant. The front of the car sports a honeycomb grille flanked by LED headlights. The SE and Autobahn variants are equipped with LED fog lights. Further, the sporty LED taillights and the daytime running lights enhance the futuristic and sporty look. The wheel size depends on the variant. The S and SE variants come with 18-inch wheels, while the Autobahn variant has 19-inch diamond-turned alloy wheels.

Interior
The interiors of the new Volkswagen Golf GTI are updated to seem more modern and comfortable than the previous models. The cabin appears more spacious, with better legroom for both the front and rear seats. The seats are designed to provide a comfortable ride, especially on long adventures. Optional features include ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, and memory settings for the driver seat. You also get ample room for cargo in a wide hatchback. The dashboard holds two displays: one is a 10.3-inch gauge cluster, and the other is a 10.0-inch touchscreen. The three-spoke steering wheel is equipped with touch-sensitive controls. The low cowl ensures higher road visibility. The SE variant offers a 480-watt audio system, advanced infotainment, illuminated grille, and sunroof, and the road and wind noise levels are lower in this model.

Fuel economy
The new Volkswagen Golf GTI with automatic transmission promises decent fuel efficiency. It delivers fuel economy with 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The manual transmission reduces the fuel economy by just 1 mpg.

The new Volkswagen Golf GTI is designed to perform well on city streets, highways, as well as rugged roads. So check out this cozy and practical option at your nearest dealership.