2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI

By Alex Forrest

The arrival of the new Golf Mark 8 GTI in late 2021 brought with it some controversy.

It also continued the long tradition of sporty driving characteristics packaged in a highly practical hatchback bearing those three letters which together, have become an icon: GTI.

Those controversial elements of the new Mark 8 GTI will be important for potential buyers to get fully across, but those wanting the things that define a Golf GTI won’t be disappointed.

The most noteworthy change brought by the new GTI is the hike in its retail price by $6110 to $53,300 when launched. Since then, the asking price has gone up again to $54,490. Add on-road costs, and you’re looking at over $62,000.

However, that does get you VW’s new generation safety gear that includes oncoming vehicle braking when turning, driver fatigue detection and manoeuvre braking, front and rear (like AEB at parking speeds).

Somewhat controversially, VW has eliminated most of the interior buttons, having instead gone for a cleaner design by integrating more of the car’s functionality into a 10-inch touchscreen.

The interface may be more complicated than physical buttons and dials, but it’s somewhat offset by the new voice activation system. For example, it can even recognise whether the driver or front passenger is talking and adjust the air conditioning specifically for who’s asking to change it.

The GTI’s engine is the same as in the previous model, and makes 188kW and 370Nm. With the seven-speed dual clutch transmission, it’s still a great match for the vehicle, though some drivers may prefer a less muted exhaust.

Among the Golf GTI’s best-of-class features is its ride quality, which provides an astounding level of compliance at low speed given the car also remains so stable and planted when cornering. The fit and finish of the interior is premium but understated.