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IMPRESSION
December 22, 2021
Test Drive: The New Volkswagen Golf GTI – Its Exhilarating Performance Remains Undiminished in the 8th Generation | Volkswagen
Enjoy the Dual Nature of Sportiness and Comfort
The new GTI, however, features a significantly improved chassis. While a bit technical, the drivetrain has undergone various enhancements. The "XDS" system, which combines an electronically controlled hydraulic differential lock with ESP, is standard equipment.
The aforementioned ESP, or Electronic Stability Program, is a system that stabilizes the vehicle's behavior during cornering when the accelerator is applied too aggressively or the wheels slip. It achieves this by reducing engine output or applying brakes to specific wheels.
For the new GTI, which navigates even tight corners with remarkable ease, XDS is a crucial weapon. Furthermore, this time, an optional system called "DCC" is available. This allows the damping force of the suspension system to be adjusted from within the cabin. Notably, the range of settings is quite fine, from Comfort to Sport.
The Golf GTI's selling point is its sporty performance. Volkswagen even claims it exhibits "extremely neutral driving characteristics even during high-speed circuit driving." However, even for those who don't intend to push it that hard but desire a fun car for daily use, there's a wide range of enjoyment to be had.
The driver can select their preferred ride quality via the 10.25-inch LCD display, named "Digital Cockpit Pro." I tried it myself and was surprised to feel a tangible increase in the car's responsiveness when set to maximum Sport mode, with the suspension becoming taut and damping firmer.
When the DCC is set to Comfort, the ride quality becomes remarkably comfortable. It meticulously absorbs road impacts, allowing occupants in both the front and rear seats to relax, whether on rough roads or highways. The photographer in the back seat during the test drive even exclaimed in admiration, "It changes this much?" To put it slightly hyperbolically, you can truly enjoy its dual nature. It's a well-executed car.