Volkswagen Golf GTI

This is the new Golf GTI. And if you’re like me—love cars and love driving—you’ll want one. Why and how? Well, that’s what we’ll explore in this review. But before we get into that, here are three things we love and one we don’t about the new Golf GTI.

First, the pull-type door handles and the solid, reassuring door shut. In a world full of flimsy, pop-out door handles, this feels wonderfully German—and very satisfying.

Second, the GTI’s practicality. It has rear doors, proper rear bench that can actually seat three adults, and a sizeable boot. It’s a performance hatch, sure, but the fact that it’s usable every day makes it even more endearing.

Third, despite being focused on the driver, the Golf GTI still packs in segment-appropriate comfort and convenience features—including rear AC vents. It’s every bit the daily-driver.

And the one thing we don’t like? The very low-profile tyres. Yes, they look great and improve dynamics, but even a small pothole becomes a threat. You’re constantly on edge, fearing tyre or wheel damage. It’s not a comfortable feeling.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s talk about how the Golf GTI drives.

The engine is the tried-and-tested 2.0-litre, turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder petrol—also known as the EA888. It’s refined, quick-revving, and potent enough to pin you to the seat under full-throttle acceleration. It makes over 260bhp and 370Nm of torque, and is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that drives the front wheels. Together, they launch the Golf GTI from 0 to 100kmph in under six seconds! 

But this engine isn’t just about numbers. You fall in love with how it delivers power. It’s grunty, yes, but also linear and approachable. The throttle is crisp, yet predictable—easy to modulate. You don’t need to go flat out to enjoy it either. Even at low revs and part throttle, there’s a sense of energy waiting to be unleashed. Just knowing it’s there makes every drive feel special. 

The DSG gearbox meanwhile is quick, responsive, and never gets in the way of spirited driving.

Performance is only the beginning of what the Golf GTI offers. The real thrill lies in its handling, steering, and braking prowess.

Now, to clarify—we only drove it on a racetrack, so we can’t comment on ride comfort. But common sense suggests that the firm suspension, limited travel, and wafer-thin tyre profile won’t make it the most comfortable car on broken roads. That said, it is wonderful on the track.

The GTI reacts instantly. It becomes an extension of your thoughts. It's forgiving yet precise, making it a joy around corners. Thanks to its razor-sharp steering, you can either back it into a corner for a bit of tail-out fun or slice through it like a scalpel.

The trick front differential handles power delivery brilliantly. It lets you stay on the throttle mid-corner, adjusts your line with ease, and allows you to rocket out of corners without wheelspin or fuss. The tyres offer loads of grip and feedback too.

The ventilated disc brakes all around are superb—strong, communicative, and predictable. They give you the confidence to push hard, lap after lap, without fear of fade or understeer. If you love driving, especially on a racetrack, this is the car to get.

This is the 8.5-generation Golf. And like any nameplate that’s been around for nearly 50 years, the new Golf is significantly larger, heavier, and more powerful than the original.

The styling of the new car is racy and chiselled—with a sloping roofline, big wheels, and aggressive bumpers—but it still carries that approachable, cheerful charm that’s quintessentially Golf.

Step inside, and the first thing that strikes you is the all-fabric upholstery. Even the iconic tartan seat pattern feels more subdued here. That aside, it’s a lovely cabin. The design, fit, and finish all feel top-notch. It doesn’t scream luxury, but it absolutely feels premium.

The seats are supportive, driving position is spot-on, visibility is great, and the ergonomics feel natural. In short, it’s a well-put-together, comfortable cabin you’ll feel instantly at home in.

As for features, the GTI can’t match similarly priced cars spec-for-spec, but it’s not bare either.

There’s seat heating, though no cooling. And the seats only adjust manually. There is no app with 1,000 functions or showy party tricks either. But you do get a panoramic sunroof, keyless start, climate control, digital instrumentation, and a large touchscreen multimedia system. Wireless phone charging is present, and for safety, it packs seven airbags and Level 2 ADAS.

The Golf GTI is fast, fun, and incredibly rewarding. It’s a sports car in hatchback form—unassuming yet competent.

It is the answer to your mid-life crisis as well as a young (but moneyed) enthusiast's dream come true. It’s practical and usable. And if we’re being generous, you could even call it a one-and-done family car.

So yes, if you love cars and love driving—and unlike me, can afford one—go out and get yourself a Golf GTI. Now.

Photography: Kapil Angane