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Car Reviews
2022 Review: Volkswagen Golf GTI

Don’t let the low-key looks of the all-new Volkswagen Golf GTI fool you. This compact hatchback ranks among the most fun cars I’ve ever driven.

The front-wheel-drive GTI’s endlessly entertaining nature starts under the hood with a 241-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. My test vehicle’s engine came mated to a slick six-speed manual transmission (a seven-speed automatic is also available). A sport-tuned adaptive suspension delivers a just-right balance of handling and ride quality, precise steering and strong brakes.


Even better, the Golf GTI’s four-door hatchback layout is eminently practical. Front seats are supportive, and there’s enough room in back for a couple of adults. Folding the rear seatbacks down opens up 34.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

Add a long list of standard advanced safety features, and you have a car that gives keeping a low profile a good name.

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STRENGTHS

  • Powerful engine
  • Practical body style

WEAKNESSES

  • Maddening touch-sensitive controls for infotainment/climate
  • Some interior materials look low-budget.

BOTTOM LINE

  • Two words you don’t often hear in the same sentence: fun and practical.

PRICING

  • Base Price: $28,545
  • As Tested: $37,995

SAFETY

  • NHTSA/Overall: Not yet tested.

M.P.G. (city/highway)

  • 24/34 (FWD)