The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a highly anticipated car in India, and after spending time with it, it’s clear that it lives up to the hype. The 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine produces 265hp and 370Nm, making it incredibly quick, with a 0-100kph time of 5.73 seconds and a quarter mile time of 13.78 seconds. The car’s performance is impressive, with strong roll-on acceleration and good brakes.
The Golf GTI’s ride comfort and handling are also noteworthy, with a clever electronic differential that counteracts understeer and makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads. The car’s size belies its agility, and it’s easy to navigate in traffic thanks to its light and quick steering. The low-speed ride can be jittery, but it settles down as speeds rise.
In terms of practicality, the Golf GTI is surprisingly capable, with a spacious cabin, plenty of storage spaces, and a 380-litre boot. The rear seat space is sufficient for two adults, and the boot opening is wide and easy to load. The car is also well-equipped with features like a 12.9-inch touchscreen, Matrix LED headlamps, and heated front seats.
However, the India-spec Golf GTI misses out on some features like Dynamic Chassis Control, a Harman/Kardon audio system, and leather seats with power adjust and ventilation. The safety kit is impressive, with 7 airbags and ADAS tech like adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking.
Priced at over Rs 50 lakh, the Golf GTI is expensive, but it’s a heart-over-head decision. The car is fun, emotional, and easy to live with, making it a great choice for enthusiasts who value driving pleasure and practicality. Overall, the Golf GTI scores high on performance, refinement, and handling, but loses points for its high price and missing features.
Rating:
* Performance and refinement: 9/10
* Ride comfort and handling: 9/10
* Interior space and comfort: 8/10
* Features and safety: 7/10
* Price and verdict: 7/10
The Golf GTI is a great car that is sure to delight driving enthusiasts, but its high price and missing features may deter some buyers. However, for those who value driving pleasure and are willing to pay a premium, the Golf GTI is an excellent choice.