Are you ready to experience the ultimate driving machine in the sport compact segment? Look no further than the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI. This hot hatch is back and better than ever, with bold styling, advanced tech features, and thrilling performance that will leave you begging for more. In this review, we’ll look closer at what makes this latest iteration of the Golf GTI a top contender in its class.
Exterior Design and Features
Volkswagen has never been known for being shy with its designs, and the 2022 Golf GTI is no exception. From every angle, this hot hatch exudes a sense of excitement and sportiness that sets it apart from the rest of the lineup. Let’s look at some exterior features that make the Golf GTI such a head-turner.
Bold Styling
The 2022 Golf GTI boasts a bold and unmistakable design that’s sure to catch the eye of anyone nearby. The front fascia features a redesigned grille with a honeycomb pattern and an aggressive bumper that gives the car an intimidating look. Along the sides, you’ll notice strong character lines that lend the car a muscular stance, while the rear end features a sporty diffuser and dual exhaust tips to complete the package.
LED Lighting and Signature GTI Accents
The Golf GTI incorporates LED lighting technology into its design, with LED headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights. This not only improves visibility but also enhances the car’s sporty aesthetic. You’ll also notice signature GTI accents throughout the exterior, from the red accent stripe running along the grille to the distinctive “GTI” badging on the back.
Wheel Options and Sizes
The Golf GTI comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, but you can upgrade to 19-inch wheels for an even more aggressive look. You’ll have your choice of several different stylish wheel designs to choose from, each of which complements the car’s overall styling.
But the exterior of the Golf GTI is more than just a collection of stylish features. It’s a carefully crafted work of art that combines form and function to create an unparalleled driving experience. The aerodynamic design of the car not only looks great but also helps to reduce wind resistance, improving fuel efficiency and handling. The car’s wide stance also improves stability, allowing you to easily take tight corners.
The Golf GTI also features many clever design elements that make it more practical for everyday use. For example, the front grille is designed to allow maximum airflow to the engine, keeping it cool even during high-performance driving.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Golf GTI’s interior is not only stylish, but also comfortable and convenient. The designers have put a lot of thought into making the driving experience as pleasant as possible. Let’s take a closer look at some of the features that make the Golf GTI stand out.
Seating and Upholstery
The standard sport seats in the Golf GTI are designed to provide maximum support and comfort during spirited driving. They feature side bolstering that keeps you firmly in place, even when taking tight turns. The cloth upholstery is not only durable but also soft to the touch. For those who prefer a more luxurious feel, leather upholstery is available as an upgrade. The seats are also heated, which is a nice feature on cold winter days.
But the seating comfort doesn’t stop there. The Golf GTI also has a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat that allows you to find the perfect driving position. The front passenger seat is also adjustable, so your passengers can find their ideal seating position as well.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Golf GTI’s infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display that’s crisp and clear and can be controlled with just a few taps. The system incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily connect your phone and access your music, contacts, and apps. The system also features Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream music and make hands-free calls.
But the infotainment system is just the beginning. The Golf GTI also has a premium sound system that delivers crystal-clear audio. The system features eight speakers and a subwoofer so you can enjoy your music with the volume cranked up.
Driver Assistance and Safety Features
The Golf GTI is not only fun to drive but also safe. The rearview camera helps you see what’s behind you when backing up, while the blind-spot monitoring system alerts you when a vehicle is in your blind spot. The adaptive cruise control system maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you, making highway driving less stressful.
But that’s not all. The Golf GTI also features a forward collision warning system that alerts you if you’re approaching a vehicle too quickly, and an automatic emergency braking system that can help prevent a collision. The car also has a pedestrian monitoring system that can detect pedestrians and warn you if one is in your path.
Performance and Handling
The Golf GTI is known for its exciting performance and nimble handling, and the 2022 model doesn’t disappoint. Let’s take a closer look at some of the performance features that make the Golf GTI such a thrill to drive.
Engine Specifications and Powertrain
The Golf GTI comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that provides quick and smooth gear changes. You can also choose to equip your Golf GTI with a six-speed manual transmission for more engaging driving.
The engine’s turbocharger delivers power quickly and smoothly, providing a thrilling acceleration experience. The Golf GTI’s powertrain is also efficient, with an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Suspension and Braking System
The Golf GTI’s suspension system is tuned for performance, with sport-tuned dampers and upgraded front and rear stabilizer bars. The result is a nimble and responsive ride that’s perfectly suited for winding roads or track days. The suspension system also provides a comfortable ride on rough roads, making the Golf GTI a great choice for daily driving.
The braking system is also upgraded, with larger front and rear discs that provide excellent stopping power. The brakes are responsive and provide a confident feel, allowing you to stop quickly and safely in any situation.
Driving Modes and Customization
The Golf GTI comes with several different driving modes that allow you to customize your driving experience. Whether you’re looking for a comfort-oriented ride or a more engaging and sporty feel, the Golf GTI has a mode for you. The available driving modes include Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual.
The Individual mode allows you to customize your driving experience further by adjusting parameters such as steering feel, throttle response, and suspension stiffness. You can also customize your driving experience with the available digital cockpit, which allows you to display information such as speed, navigation, and performance metrics.
The Golf GTI’s driving modes and customization options make it a versatile and exciting car to drive, whether you’re commuting to work or hitting the track on the weekends.
Final Thoughts
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI is a force to be reckoned with, offering a perfect balance of power, performance, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a daily driver or a weekend thrill machine, the Golf GTI has something for everyone. With its bold styling, advanced tech features, and thrilling performance, the Golf GTI will turn heads and inspire envy on the road.
