2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE

The all-new 2022 Golf GTI debuts the eighth generation of this famed compact, with a focus on performance, safety, and comfort.

Even though there are three trims to choose from, the mid-level SE was my choice for the value, styling, and numerous exciting features.

Engine, Transmission and Performance

The SE is powered by a 2.0-liter TSI DOHC turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is capable of up to 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both horsepower and torque have been increased substantially from the predecessors.

This Golf can sprint 0-60 in 5.3 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, for a combined average of 28 mpg.

This GTI has not been rated by the NHTSA 5-star safety testing as of this writing.

Interior

Everything is cool and comfortable inside, thanks to the well-designed cabin featuring Climatronic single-zone automatic climatic control with Air Care. Cabin atmosphere anchored by the 10-inch infotainment/navigation touchscreen, which works in tandem with a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster to relay all necessary information. The gauge cluster seemed to be more for the aesthetic value as opposed to a clearer viewing with larger gauges and not so much empty spacing between the different gauges.

My Golf GTI SE had the optional ventilated front seats with driver’s side memory settings, and the seating surface featured the traditional cloth front with plaid design. I didn’t think the seats were very attractive, especially since they also felt a little snug.

The three-spoke steering wheel had a heavily contoured rim and touch-sensitive controls. A little too sensitive for me. The touchscreen operated through the touch-sensitive slides. However, I would have preferred simple buttons or small knobs.

The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and four USB-C ports – 2 front data ports and 2 rear charging ports.

Some of the most attractive and beneficial interior features included the multi-color adjustable ambient lighting, front footwell lights, and illuminated power adjustable mirrors. Although the Golf GTI is attractive inside, the easily accessible sunroof adds a reminder to the outside on a beautiful day. All these rich good looks rests on 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires.

Exterior

Outside, the attractive illuminated grille joins the LED headlights to span illumination across the front. The light suite is completed with LED Daytime Running lights, LED Taillights, and LED fog lights with Low Speed Cornering Lights.

Safety and Driver Assist

Volkswagen provides numerous driver assist and safety features in its IQ.DRIVE and Driver Assistance packages. Features like Front Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, Lane Assist, and Active Blind Spot Monitor keep a constant watch for the driver. Parking Distance Control, Park Assist, and Dynamic Road Sign Assist also lend an extra precise and helpful set of eyes.

VW has improved the driving experience with a lower cowl, which increases visibility for the road ahead. The wheelbase has been stretched by 0.6 inch and overall length by an inch, contributing to the super steering and control. Golf GTI has noteworthy stopping power, giving confidence to the deceleration.

The MSRP for the 2022 VW Golf GTI starts at $29,880 for the base S model. The SE model in this review carries a list price of $34,630.

Warranty Information
4 years/50,000 miles New Vehicle Limited Warranty
7 years/100,000 miles Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty
2 years/20,000 miles Scheduled Carefree Maintenance
3 years/36,000 miles 24-Hour Roadside Assistance

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or [email protected].