Markedly Improved Chassis Refinement

We first drove this new Golf GTI in April. The route from Nice to Saint-Tropez offered a variety of winding roads, but the roads were generally narrow and the surface conditions were far from ideal. What left a strong impression was the markedly improved refinement of the chassis. The reduction in unpleasant noise and vibration is likely in line with the improvements made to the base Golf 6 model. However, the exceptional ride comfort for a hot hatch on 18-inch wheels can undoubtedly be attributed to the DCC. While absorbing large impacts smoothly, it constantly strives to keep the car's body flat, giving it a sense of substance that feels more like a higher-class sedan than a sporty compact.

The DSG, carried over from the previous generation, also features improved clutch engagement at low speeds, and its shift program now perfectly matches the smoother throttle management in low-speed driving, resulting in a smoothness nearly indistinguishable from a conventional automatic transmission. Overall, the new Golf GTI can be said to possess a comfort that satisfies it as a premium daily driver, from city driving to high-speed cruising.

The Best Buy: 18-inch Wheels with DCC and DSG

The XDS, which enhances cornering by adjusting braking between the left and right wheels, is particularly beneficial during cornering at medium to high speeds. Understeer, which was strongly felt in the previous model in this range, is now effectively suppressed, and the car's behavior is thoroughly neutral, to the point where its limits are not apparent during public road driving.

The chassis itself has exceptional cornering ability, rivaling even the Scirocco with its low center of gravity and wide track. When enjoying winding roads, switching the DCC to Sport mode provides a solid feel with minimal body roll.

During our test drive in Japan, we also had the opportunity to drive the standard 17-inch specification, which offered noticeable improvements in quietness and ride comfort at high speeds. However, it did not quite achieve the aura of a class above that comes with the 18-inch wheels and DCC. Although it requires an additional cost as an option, the combination of 18-inch wheels, DCC, and the DSG transmission is undoubtedly the specification that brings out the best in this car. In essence, it means acquiring a premium compact car that offers superb comfort, practicality, and safety, while also being environmentally friendly. The fact that it possesses the elements of a first-class sports car while remaining a first-class compact car is perhaps the remarkable legacy it has maintained through generations.

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