The allure of the hot hatch – a vehicle that masterfully blends everyday practicality with exhilarating performance – holds a special place in the hearts of automotive aficionados. While perhaps not as mainstream in America as in Europe, the appeal of a sporty, compact hatchback is undeniable, especially for those who crave driving engagement. Last week, I rediscovered this very allure while navigating the winding, leaf-strewn roads of the Smoky Mountains, behind the wheel of a legend: the Volkswagen Golf GTI.
The 2022 model year marks the arrival of the eighth generation, or Mk8, Volkswagen Golf GTI. For the US market, Volkswagen has streamlined the Golf lineup, offering only the GTI and its even more potent sibling, the Golf R. The standard Golf is no longer available stateside, reflecting the prevailing preference for SUVs and crossovers among American car buyers. However, for a dedicated niche of enthusiasts who appreciate a vehicle that is both practical and immensely enjoyable to drive in diverse environments, from bustling city streets to suburban avenues, Volkswagen proudly presents the new GTI.
With a starting price of $30,540, the 2022 Golf GTI packs a punch with its 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, generated by a responsive 2.0L turbocharged inline-four engine. This power is more than sufficient for a front-wheel-drive car, endowing the GTI with an eagerness to zip through traffic and confidently tackle winding mountain roads.
Adding to the fun factor, the Golf GTI incorporates playful design elements, such as the iconic golf-ball-shaped shift knob and the optional plaid cloth seats, a nostalgic nod to the original Golf. Volkswagen even provided matching socks with the plaid pattern, a quirky touch that underscores the car’s fun-loving character. While a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is available, the six-speed manual transmission is the purist’s choice, and arguably the more engaging option. Beyond the “Save The Manuals” sentiment, the manual gearbox genuinely enhances the driving experience, mitigating the slight hesitation sometimes encountered with the DSG automatic, particularly when accelerating from a standstill or during highway merges.
In automatic guise, the hesitation can be noticeable. Imagine cruising at 45 mph and needing to quickly accelerate to pass or merge – the car momentarily pauses, as if contemplating your request before finally unleashing its power. This delay, also present when starting from a stop, can be both irritating and potentially concerning in situations like making left turns across oncoming traffic. Conversely, the manual transmission offers a more direct and responsive connection to the engine. It also presents a minor anti-theft feature in a world where manual driving skills are becoming less common. The golf-ball shifter smoothly engages each gear with a satisfying tactile feel, complemented by a clutch that is both light and predictable. Volkswagen reports that around 40% of GTI buyers still opt for the manual, suggesting a healthy appreciation for driver engagement.
Technically, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI is well-equipped, featuring a standard torque-sensing limited-slip differential to optimize front-wheel traction. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a suite of other safety technologies are also included as standard, further enhancing its everyday usability. The core appeal of a hot hatch lies in its practicality, and the Golf GTI delivers. The rear seats fold down to create a generously sized cargo area, and fuel economy is commendable, achieving an EPA-rated 34 mpg on the highway (28 mpg combined, and around 24-25 mpg in the city, varying slightly between manual and automatic versions).
For those seeking the ultimate expression of Golf performance, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R awaits. This is the apex of the hot hatch spectrum, boasting a more potent engine that produces 315 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Crucially, the Golf R channels this power through a sophisticated torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, providing exceptional grip and control, particularly on challenging surfaces. During my drive, the all-wheel-drive system proved remarkably effective on leaf-covered roads, inspiring confidence and allowing for spirited driving.
The Golf R distinguishes itself further with upgraded front brakes, a visually striking quad-exhaust system, subtle exterior styling enhancements, and a unique leather interior. While the GTI’s signature plaid cloth seats are not available on the R, this is a minor point in an otherwise comprehensively upgraded package. Under demanding driving conditions, the GTI’s brakes exhibited some fade, whereas the Golf R’s brakes remained consistently strong, encouraging even more spirited driving. The Golf R also features specialized driving modes, including a “Drift” mode and a “Special” mode inspired by the Nürburgring racetrack (though not legally named as such). The ambient lighting dynamically changes color with the selected drive mode – red for Sport, green for Special, and so on.
The 2022 Golf R comes in a fully-equipped trim level, priced at $44,640 for the manual version, with a slight premium for the automatic. Again, the manual transmission is the more rewarding choice, enhancing driver engagement and adding to the overall cool factor. Ultimately, whether you choose the GTI or the R, consider adding a Golf to your garage. The hot hatch segment is diminishing, and supporting these vehicles helps ensure their survival. And for an unforgettable driving experience, plan a trip to the Smoky Mountains in the fall – the leaf-strewn roads are waiting.
