The 10 Second Review
The hot-hatchback category was revolutionized by the Volkswagen Golf GTI, and even after many years, it continues to be the cherry on top of a delightful assortment of compact vehicles known for their enjoyable driving experience. Beneath the hood, you’ll find a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 241 horsepower, directing power to the front wheels via either a seven-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. The interior is roomy both in the front and rear, and in keeping with the GTI tradition, there’s ample cargo space beneath the hatchback door.
Pros
- Great all-rounder
- Daily driver
- Very quick & fun
- Agile handling
Cons
- Slightly expensive
- Touch controls for
media & A/C
Rivals are catching
up
The In-Depth Review
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2023 Golf GTI packs a punch with its turbo 2.0-liter engine, kicking out 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque – that’s 13 more horses than the previous model. You can go manual or opt for the seven-speed auto, which we tried and it nailed 0-100 kmh in 5.1 seconds.
Beyond the speed boost, the GTI’s got a tuned-up suspension, slick limited-slip differential, and brake-based torque vectoring for a more thrilling ride on curves. The chassis is spot-on – sharp handling without sacrificing a comfy ride.
When you need to hit the brakes, the GTI’s got your back, stopping from 120 kmh in just 151 feet. Overall, it’s a fun and fast ride, no doubt.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Within, the Golf GTI showcases a more contemporary design with nods to tradition. The dashboard is dominated by a pair of sizable displays—a 10.3-inch gauge cluster and a 10.0-inch touchscreen—enclosed by a glossy black bezel. The GTI’s three-spoke steering wheel features a distinctly contoured rim with touch-sensitive controls. The front seats, with enhanced side support, exhibit red accents along the outer edges and classic plaid inserts on the top and bottom cushions—a long-standing GTI characteristic. However, the new interior, unlike the high-quality feel of the previous generation, incorporates some less-than-premium finishes and rigid plastics. While visibility is improved with a lower cowl, we lean towards a straightforward set of analog gauges rather than the overly customizable digital configuration. The updated GTI’s slight increase in size, adding an inch overall and extending the wheelbase by 0.6 inches, contributes to its already commendable passenger comfort and cargo space.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The GTI’s entertainment system operates through a standard 10.0-inch touchscreen, but it’s a bit of a letdown as it relies mainly on touch-sensitive sliders instead of the more user-friendly buttons and knobs. On the bright side, it comes with a couple of charging ports and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These familiar phone apps and menu layouts can be a lifesaver, helping to balance out VW’s otherwise busy and potentially distracting interface.
Price from AED 167,000
“Volkswagen invented the hot hatch. It is still as good!”
