Test Drive: The New Volkswagen Golf GTI – Its Exhilarating Performance Remains Undiminished in the 8th Generation | Volkswagen
Enjoy the Feel of a High-Revving Engine
With maximum torque available from 1600rpm, the engine provides strong power even when not driven at high revs. On the other hand, for those who want to enjoy the GTI's driving dynamics, revving it out to higher RPMs is a pure pleasure.
There's no sense of the power plateauing; rather, the engine's feel is that of a high-revving unit where power continues to build the higher you rev it. This is a sensation I absolutely love. It makes me appreciate engines all over again.
In fact, this 1984cc 4-cylinder engine shares the same specifications as the engine in the previous Golf GTI's high-performance model, the "GTI Performance." The new GTI has further evolved as a car for driving enthusiasts, with revisions to the suspension system, a sportier steering setup, and the aforementioned electronic limited-slip differential and new DCC all combined.
The fully digital instrument cluster with its large display can show various information, such as navigation, in addition to the basic speedometer and tachometer.
The interior offers ample space for both front and rear occupants. This is typical of Volkswagen's excellent packaging. The standard seat fabric is tartan check, a pattern that has been a continuous tradition since the first GTI. This will surely please fans. I, too, would choose this over the optional leather seats.
The integrated headrest high-back seats provide excellent body support, making long journeys comfortable (though I haven't experienced them myself). The responsive acceleration to throttle input, the effective brakes, and the steering system that faithfully transmits road information all contribute to the great appeal of being able to "converse" with the car while driving.
The new Golf GTI is available as a single grade, priced at 4.66 million yen. Sales began on January 7, 2022. The "DCC Package," featuring adaptive chassis control that allows suspension settings to be adjusted, is an optional extra for 220,000 yen.
Additionally, the "Discover Pro" in-car infotainment system, with its faster startup, is priced at 198,000 yen. The "Luxury Package," which combines an electric sliding sunroof with a Harman Kardon hi-fi system featuring 12 channels and 9 speakers, costs 231,000 yen, allowing for various personalized selections.
