2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI

While the world may be waiting with bated breath for the Mk8, the seventh generation lives on as the 2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI tears up US streets in the name of fun and affordable performance. Whereas the hot hatch segment was once bustling with activity, the GTI is one of the few remaining stalwarts, joined by theHonda Civic Type RandHyundai Veloster Nas its closest rivals. Under the hood lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder gas engine producing a healthy 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission or a magnificent 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The interior is typically VW, and oozes refinement and build quality, despite the GTIs age, lending it the reputation of being the gentleman's hot hatch instead of the typical boy racer. Ahead of an all-new model's imminent arrival, does the GTI still have what it takes to remain in the spotlight?

的大众高尔夫GTI掀背车留下深刻印象ive performance from its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 gasoline engine. The GTI is strictly front-wheel drive, with outputs of 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque distributed via a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual clutch transmission, both of which come readily equipped with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The power outputs are relatively low when compared to competitors such as the Hyundai Veloster N which packs up to 275 hp, but it's the way the GTI delivers its power that makes the difference. The 2.0-liter four-pot boasts a wide torque band and, when equipped with the DSG, it delivers that power in a satisfying, almost seamless rush. The 0 to 60 mph sprint takes 6.4 seconds in manual guise, while the DSG car will manage to slip into the high five-second bracket. The top speed is limited to 155 mph. The combination of a torquey motor, and a beautifully balanced chassis, makes this a seriously impressive driver's car.

There's a reason why the GTI name is so revered across the globe: Volkswagen builds one of the best hot hatches on the market, full stop. It might not be the quickest car out there, but it performs with confidence, and this seventh generation car is the best one yet - at least until the MK8 arrives. The brilliant 2.0-liter turbocharged four-banger delivers smooth and strong performance all while attaining decent gas mileage figures, and the chassis is perfectly balanced to deliver fun no matter your skill level. Other hot hatches often try too hard to be track warriors, but the Golf GTI hatchback is a softer sort of performance vehicle, striking a deft balance between daily usability, an affordable price and running costs, and performance when you want it.

You can't really lose here, as either of the three trims present in our 2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI review has a place. If you're purely in it for the driving experience, the base model will serve you well. The S trim includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a rearview camera. A single-zone climate control system and funky tartan seats are also included. If you're planning on spending a lot of time in your GTI, then the SE makes sense: it adds features such as an eight-inch infotainment display, adaptive cruise control, dual-zone climate control, and a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat. But if you want to track your GTI, you must get the Autobahn - as this comes with dynamic chassis control and performance-oriented summer tires, in addition to a power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and more convenience features. The difference in the price of these 2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI hatchback trims spans nearly $8,000, though.