2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI Assessment, Pricing, and Specs

Overview

The Volkswagen Golf GTI pioneered the hot-hatchback style and now, after decades of existence, it’s nonetheless the whipped cream atop this sundae of delectable, fun-to-drive compact machines. The GTI was redesigned for the 2022 mannequin yr, full with up to date styling and extra fashionable inside options, but it surely nonetheless possesses the fun-to-drive nature that makes it a efficiency icon. A turbocharged, 2.0-liter, 241-hp four-cylinder is beneath the hood and powers the entrance wheels by means of both a seven-speed automated or—our alternative—a six-speed handbook transmission. Its cabin is spacious in each the entrance and the again and, like each GTI for the reason that nameplate’s inception, there’s loads of room for cargo beneath the hatchback door. Whether or not you’re new to speedy boxes-on-wheels or have been a devoted GTI fan for the reason that early days, this newest rendition is as fun-loving as when the original first arrived on these shores. For a GTI turned as much as eleven, take a look at the Golf R (reviewed individually), which boasts 315 horsepower, commonplace all-wheel drive, and equally sensible dealing with.

What’s New for 2023?

The one factor new for 2023 is the addition of a 40^th Anniversary Version to the lineup to have fun 40 years for the reason that Golf GTI made its option to the U.S. The restricted manufacturing version joins the S, SE, and Autobahn trims, slotting in above the S. In any other case, the Golf GTI is unchanged from 2022.

Pricing and Which One to Purchase

When deciding which GTI trim to purchase, the mid-level SE strikes us as the perfect worth. For an additional $800, the usual six-speed handbook may be swapped for a seven-speed dual-clutch automated. We want to shift for ourselves, so we would keep away from the surcharge. In contrast with the entry-level trim, the SE provides a 480-watt Karman/Hardon audio system, a cool illuminated grille, enhanced infotainment options, and a sunroof. It may also be fitted with leather-based upholstery, ventilated entrance seats, and reminiscence settings for the driving force’s seat, however meaning ditching the GTI’s conventional fabric seats and their plaid design. We’d by no means try this.

Engine, Transmission, and Efficiency

The 2023 Golf GTI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that develops 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. That is a rise of 13 horses and 15 pound-feet versus its predecessor, however that energy continues to be routed to the entrance wheels by means of both a typical six-speed handbook transmission or an non-obligatory seven-speed dual-clutch automated. We tested a GTI with the auto ‘box, which had good shifts and helped ship the hatch to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds–0.7 faster than a last-gen Rabbit edition with the automatic. Not solely is the brand new GTI faster in a straight line, we credit score its revised suspension, electronically managed limited-slip differential, and brake-based torque vectoring for an uptick in leisure worth on again roads and race tracks. The VW’s expertly tuned chassis deserves extra reward than ever, with its sharp responses and not-too-firm, not-too-soft experience high quality. The latter was skilled in a top-spec Autobahn mannequin, which comes with adjustable adaptive dampers and a set of 19-inch wheels (18-inchers are commonplace) sporting summer season tires. Nothing places a damper on spirited driving like a delicate brake pedal, however the GTI offers agency suggestions and noteworthy stopping energy, halting the hatch from 70 mph in simply 151 toes.

Gasoline Economic system and Actual-World MPG

Essentially the most environment friendly Golf GTI mannequin is the one with the automated transmission, which earned scores of 25 mpg metropolis and 34 mpg freeway. Choosing the six-speed handbook reduces gasoline financial system within the metropolis by 1 mpg. After we examined a Golf GTI with the automated on our 75-mph freeway gasoline financial system route, which is a part of our extensive testing regimen, it overperformed its EPA estimate and returned 38 mpg. For extra details about the Golf GTI’s gasoline financial system, go to the EPA’s website.

Inside, Consolation, and Cargo

Inside, the Golf GTI boasts a extra fashionable design than earlier than and a few conventional callbacks. The dashboard is dominated by two giant shows—a ten.3-inch gauge cluster and a ten.0-inch touchscreen—that share a piano-black bezel. The GTI’s three-spoke steering wheel boasts a closely contoured rim and touch-sensitive controls. Its bolstered entrance seats have purple accents round their outer edges and iconic plaid inserts on the highest and backside cushions—a GTI hallmark by means of the a long time. Sadly, not like the high-quality environs of the earlier technology, the brand new inside is marred by some chintzy finishes and onerous plastics. Seeing the street forward is improved by a decrease cowl, however we want a easy set of analog gauges over the overly configurable digital setup. The brand new GTI grows by an inch general and sees its wheelbase stretch by 0.6 inch, which solely furthers its spectacular passenger lodging and cargo house.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The GTI’s infotainment system runs by means of a typical 10.0-inch touchscreen. Sadly, it is primarily operated by way of touch-sensitive sliders as a substitute of extra intuitive buttons and knobs. Together with a few charging ports, the system consists of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These acquainted cellphone apps and menu buildings will assist offset VW’s in any other case busy and doubtlessly distracting interface.

Security and Driver-Help Options

The GTI comes with a number of normal driver-assistance technology in addition to non-obligatory upgrades. Notably, VW’s IQ.Drive system is out there on all trims and, along with conventional options equivalent to automated emergency braking and lane-keeping help, consists of Emergency Help, which brings the automobile to a cease and activates the hazards within the absence of detected driver enter. For extra details about the Golf GTI’s crash-test outcomes, go to the Nationwide Freeway Site visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance coverage Institute for Freeway Security (IIHS) web sites. Key security options embody:

• Customary automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Customary lane-departure warning and lane-keeping help
• Accessible adaptive cruise management

Guarantee and Upkeep Protection

VW consists of an above-average restricted guarantee, however its powertrain safety trails behind most opponents. The corporate does sweeten the take care of complimentary scheduled upkeep that’s just like what Toyota gives.

• Restricted guarantee covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain guarantee covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary upkeep is roofed for 2 years or 20,000 miles

More Features and Specs