Volkswagen Golf GTI: The Iconic Hot Hatch

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is an icon in the hot hatch class. In fact, it’s one of the final models offered as a hot hatch. Let’s see what it brings to the table.

When you want impressive performance and a versatile 5-door build, the GTI is a great choice. The Golf R might take things further, but its meant for performance and hardcore driving while the GTI allows daily driving pleasure and practicality where the Golf R is all about performance and fun.

Here’s what you’ll find across the Volkswagen Golf GTI lineup.

How much power does the GTI make?

Every model of the Golf GTI uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine mates to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This setup gives you 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque and can utilize regular gasoline to make this car more useful.

If you must have the Golf R, you’ll need to use premium gasoline and enjoy 315 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Another difference between these two Golf models is the FWD setup of the GTI versus the AWD layout for the Golf R.

Is there anything new about this VW?

The Volkswagen Golf GTI has some new items, including power-folding side mirrors for all versions. The SE trim has a new wheel design, giving it a more attractive look. 2024 is the final model year VW plans to offer a manual transmission for this car. A new GTI 380 package has been added to all manual transmission versions of the GTI. This package gives the car a black roof, 19-inch black alloy wheels, adaptive damping, and a unique Graphite Gray Metallic paint color.

What does each trim include?

There are three trims offered for the Volkswagen Golf GTI: S, SE, and Autobahn. Let’s see what each one brings to your driving experience.

Golf GTI S

The S trim is where we begin our journey. If you choose the manual transmission, you’ll have the 380 packages, which makes the GTI a little more expensive. Either way, this base trim gives you:

• Rain-sensing wiper
• Push-button starting
• 10.25-inch configurable digital driver information display
• Multicolor adjustable ambient lighting
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED exterior lights
• Heated, power-folding outboard mirrors with passenger-side reverse tilt-down
• Red-painted brake calipers
• Single-zone automatic climate controls
• Leather-wrapped heated steering wheel
• Heated washer nozzles
• Cloth-covered heated front sport seats
• Four USB ports
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• 8.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• 7-speaker audio system
• Bluetooth
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Wireless device charging
• Adaptive cruise control
• IQ.Drive safety tech
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Blind-spot monitoring with steering assist
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Front and rear park assist
  • Travel Assist
  • Semi-autonomous driver assistance tech

Golf GTI SE

Move up one step on the ladder, and you’ll find the Volkswagen Golf GTI SE. This middle trim gives you:

• Power panoramic sunroof
• Proximity keyless entry
• 10-inch touchscreen
• Navigation system
• Satellite radio capability
• 9-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system
• Traffic-sign assist

At this middle trim level you can add the SE Leather Seats Package. This package gives you leather front seating surfaces, a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings, and ventilated front seats.

Golf GTI Autobahn

Named for the popular road in Germany, the Autobahn trim is the top level of the Golf GTI. This version adds more to your driving pleasure, including:

• SE Leather Seats Package content
• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Multi-mode DCC adaptive damping suspension
• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• Heated outboard seats
• Head-up display
• High-beam assist
• Parking steering assist

What does the Golf R include?

We’ve talked about the Golf R, and it’s probably a good idea to let you know what you’ll get if you choose the performance version of this VW. The Gol R has more power and builds on the GTI Autobahn by adding:

• Nappa leather upholstery with blue accents
• Sport brakes with cross-drilled front rotors
• Blue-painted calipers
• R Styling cues
  • Unique grille, bumpers, side skirts
  • 2-pieice rear spoiler
  • Chrome-tipped quad exhaust

Which model will you drive?

Will you drive one of the Volkswagen Golf GTI trims or go all the way to the top and take on the performance-oriented Golf R. This car is one of the few hot hatches still left in the market, giving us some great choices when it’s time for some driving fun. If you’re looking for active driving that doesn’t cost as much as most high-performance sports cars, the Golf GTI and R models are where you should begin.