Pros: Outstanding balance between invigorating performance and day-to-day practicality; impressive refinement; cargo versatility of hatchback body style; decent fuel economy
Cons: Top-end models get rather pricey; automated-manual transmission’s behavior feels odd to some drivers; rear roof pillars are a bit thick, blocking the view to the corners
CG Says: After its redesign for 2015, the Volkswagen Golf GTI gets a new “MIB II” infotainment system with USB connectivity and VW’s Car-Net App-Connect technology for 2016. Also, a rearview camera is now standard on all models, and the Driver Assistance Package has been updated to include adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning and autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and a parking steering assist system. The Volkswagen Golf GTI is the sporty “hot-hatch” performance version of VW’s Golf lineup. It comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that puts out 210 horsepower in base form, or 220 with the optional Performance Package (which also includes a limited-slip differential and larger brakes). An adaptive suspension is another performance option. The Golf GTI is an impressive car that upholds this time-honored nameplate’s status as a benchmark among performance-focused sporty hatchbacks. What the GTI might lack in outright horsepower compared to others in the Sporty/Performance Car class, it more than makes up for in terms of sprightly handling, surprising practicality, and an amazingly high level of refinement. It’s simply one of the best vehicles in its class.
| Class | Sporty/Performance Car |
| Body Style(s) | 2-door hatchback, 4-door hatchback |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | S 2-door, manual: $24,995 S 4-door, manual: $25,595 S 2-door, automatic: $26,095 S 4-door, automatic: $26,695 SE 2-door, manual: $28,025 SE 4-door, manual: $28,625 SE 2-door, automatic: $29,125 SE 4-door, automatic: $29,725 Autobahn 4-door, manual: $30,135 Autobahn 4-door, automatic: $31,235 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 210 (220 w/ Performance Pack) |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automated manual |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 33-34 |
