Even as anticipation builds for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI and the arrival of the Mk8 generation, the 2020 Golf GTI remains a compelling option in the hot hatch segment. This iteration of the iconic GTI delivers a potent blend of performance and everyday usability that continues to resonate with driving enthusiasts.
Under the hood, the 2020 GTI boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 228 horsepower. Power is delivered to the front wheels, offering drivers a choice between a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission for purists, or a responsive seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission for rapid gear changes.
For the 2020 model year, Volkswagen streamlined the GTI lineup to focus on two core trims: the S and SE. While the popular Rabbit Edition was discontinued, along with the standalone Autobahn trim, the spirit of the Autobahn lives on as a comprehensive optional package for the SE trim. This package elevates the SE trim with premium features including automatic dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control for enhanced driving convenience, and a high-fidelity Fender sound system for audiophiles. Furthermore, Volkswagen has enhanced the standard safety features across both trims, making Front Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Traffic Alert standard equipment, adding peace of mind to the GTI’s sporty character.
Priced to appeal to a broad range of buyers, the 2020 Golf Gti starts at $28,595 for the engaging six-speed manual version, and $29,395 for the quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch variant.
To provide deeper insights, here are staff reviews from automotive experts who have experienced the 2020 Golf GTI firsthand:
Chris Tropea, Associate Editor:
“The Volkswagen GTI’s enduring appeal stems from a simple yet brilliant formula: combine a potent engine with a lightweight, compact hatchback to create a car that’s both thrilling and practical for daily use. The 2020 MK7 GTI perfectly embodies this philosophy. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, makes this car an absolute joy to drive in any setting.”
“While the GTI is becoming a rare breed as a car still offered with a manual transmission, the model I tested featured Volkswagen’s seven-speed DSG transmission. Frankly, in daily driving scenarios, I didn’t miss the manual gearbox at all. While a manual might offer a more engaging experience for some, the DSG excels in everyday driving. Its gear changes are seamless, and it responds instantly to throttle inputs. For those seeking more control, switching to manual mode and utilizing the paddle shifters provides equally swift responses.”
“As a daily driver of a 2010 Mk6 GTI with a manual transmission, I was genuinely reluctant to return this 2020 GTI. It felt remarkably similar to my own car but with a noticeable increase in refinement. The updated engine delivers significantly more low-end torque and sustains power higher into the rev range, resulting in a sensation of enhanced quickness. The Mk7 chassis represents a substantial improvement over the previous generation, which carried over the fundamental setup from the Mk5 launched back in 2006.”
“The interior of the Mk7 GTI is a step up, retaining the familiar layout of its predecessor but with a more premium feel. It evokes the ambiance of an Audi or Mercedes, featuring comfortable, supportive seats – although personally, I prefer the classic plaid cloth seats – and high-quality materials throughout the cabin. During both city and highway driving, the cabin remained impressively quiet, with minimal road noise, and the suspension effectively absorbed bumps and road imperfections. This particular Mk7 was also equipped with the upgraded 400-watt Fender audio system, which stood out as one of the best in-car sound systems I’ve encountered.”
“The infotainment screen is intuitive and comprehensive, providing access to virtually every vehicle setting through a unified menu. With seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, you can effortlessly connect your smartphone to the system, navigating with a combination of touchscreen inputs and voice commands.”
“The selectable driving modes offer a subtle but perceptible difference in driving dynamics. While ‘Sport’ mode did introduce more engine noise, which I found somewhat intrusive, I preferred driving in ‘Normal’ or ‘Eco’ mode for everyday use.”
“While Volkswagens may have a reputation for occasional reliability quirks – and my own Mk6 GTI has experienced its share of unusual issues, some of which have been costly to address – there’s an undeniable charm to the GTI that keeps me coming back.”
“The Mk7 GTI is a comfortable and practical daily driver with commendable fuel economy and sufficient space for everyday needs. Even as it prepares to make way for the redesigned Mk8 GTI in the near future, the Mk7 2020 model remains an excellent vehicle and a smart choice for anyone seeking a fun and versatile daily driver.”
JG Pasterjak, Tech Editor & Production Manager:
“The Mk7 GTI era is drawing to a close. The Mk8 generation is on the horizon – initially slated for auto show debuts that were subsequently canceled – and it’s poised to become the new object of desire. However, savvy buyers would be wise to visit dealerships when the Mk8 arrives, seeking out potential deals on remaining Mk7 models, because the 2020 GTI is truly a gem.”
“The GTI delivers a genuinely premium German car experience, feeling every bit as refined as offerings from Audi, BMW, or Mercedes. Yet, it retains that raw, engaging character inherent to every GTI before it. You could blindfold yourself, step into an ’85 Golf GTI and then a current Mk7, and instantly recognize you’re in a GTI.”
“While my street driving time in this specific GTI was limited, I’ve driven numerous Mk7 variants extensively – even spending weeks cruising the Autobahn in electric GTE and diesel GTD models – and have consistently found the GTI’s versatile utility to be an invaluable everyday companion. While Hyundai is currently excelling at creating interiors with an ideal balance of physical buttons, knobs, and touchscreens that are intuitive and user-friendly, VW perhaps falls slightly short in this area. Some functions are unnecessarily buried within menus, and too many tactile controls have been replaced with touchscreen options. However, these are primarily concerns for automotive journalists who must quickly acclimate to a new car’s UI each week. Living with this car long-term, you’d quickly adapt to the quirks of certain controls, and they would soon become second nature.”
“I did, however, have the opportunity to put the GTI through its paces on a track, and it was an absolute blast. It boasts one of the most impressive sets of stock brakes of any car I’ve driven in recent memory. Upgrading to performance brake pads would be all that’s needed to transform it into a serious track day weapon. The 228 horsepower engine feels underrated, as the front tires struggle for traction even in third gear, and the car pulls strongly all the way to the redline. The DSG transmission is an outstanding track partner, delivering firm and precise upshifts and downshifts. While there’s a slight delay between paddle actuation and gear changes, it’s consistently predictable, allowing you to quickly adjust your timing after a few aggressive shifts. The paddles themselves could benefit from being larger and more substantial – the DSG’s track prowess deserves proper, heavy-duty track paddles.”
“If there’s a minor drawback to track performance, it’s the significant workload placed on the front wheels, which are essentially handling ALL the demands. While the GTI is responsive and predictable, you can feel that the front tires are bearing the brunt of braking, cornering, and acceleration – because they are. In contrast to a car like the Honda Civic Si, which feels more balanced but less aggressively tuned, the GTI projects a more edgy performance character, achieving its capabilities by heavily relying on those front tires to manage the load.”
“Nevertheless, this is a minor point compared to the overall driving enjoyment. Rotate your tires regularly, and the GTI will deliver lap after lap of pure driving satisfaction.”
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