Volkswagen Golf GTI

The first generation pioneered the hot hatch genre

Deliveries of the 8.5-generation Volkswagen Golf finally began in Japan in February. The most notable model is the Golf GTI, a hatchback model that inherits the pure sports car lineage with its dedicated powertrain and sports chassis.

Although the original Mini from the BMC era was a pioneer in utilizing the compact packaging of a transversely mounted front-wheel drive car for sporty driving, it was the first Golf GTI that pioneered the “hot hatch” genre with its more modern and practical hatchback body with a luggage compartment that could be opened and closed at the rear.

This original hot hatch has been given a facelift this time, but it has been brushed up in every way. It now features the latest generation infotainment system called MIB4, housed on a large 12.9-inch touchscreen, and also features voice command called IDA, so it is in line with the regular lineup of the Golf 8.5.

However, the center console now has a glossy piano black finish, and the buttons on the steering wheel have been changed from touch-sensitive to physical, tactile buttons. The balance between gloss and matte appearance has only changed slightly, but the tactile interface has been significantly improved. There seems to be no change to the traditional checkered seats, but the seat cushions themselves feel firmer than the previous model, and the red lines and stitching are more vivid, meaning the saturation of the red accents feels more intense. In short, the static texture is more defined and crisp.

Aluminum wheels inspired by the 5th generation Golf

The most noticeable feature of the exterior is that the emblem on the body side is now positioned to connect the headlights and character line in a straight line, and instead the “GTI” lettering is now placed under the door mirrors and character line. At the front, canard-shaped parts in the same color as the body have been added to both ends of the under-grille. With the adoption of IQ.Lights, the number of lights has been reduced from four to two for a cleaner look, and the “VW” emblem has been made backlit and illuminated, which can be said to be a change similar to that of the standard Golf 8.5 model.

A detail that appeals to GTI owners even more is the optional five-spoke aluminum wheels, which have a slightly Italian design feel and are inspired by the fifth-generation Golf. Now that the Young Timers and the ’80s have come full circle, the ’90s and Y2K style is the next trend. Although it is becoming an independent leader in the hot hatch world in the absence of rivals like Peugeot and Renault Sport, the Golf GTI has always been an undisputed trendsetter. Incidentally, the tires fitted are Bridgestone Potenza S005, 235/35R19.

Honest and straightforward engine characteristics

As for the driving experience, if you listen carefully, the 2.0-liter direct injection turbo emits a low, muffled exhaust sound from its thick, twin muffler ends that is clearly different from the normal 1.5-liter gasoline engine. The quick torque delivery and rock-solid traction are clearly conveyed even at speeds comparable to city driving. Once you step on the accelerator, the car begins to accelerate explosively, with a powerful bubbling sound and the instantaneous shifting of the 7-speed DSG (DCT) followed by further acceleration.

The maximum torque of 370Nm, which is more than that of a TDI diesel, is no joke, but the direct injection engine delivers torque linearly without pause from as early as 1600rpm to the beginning of the high-rev range at 4500rpm. The power, which has increased by 20PS from the previous model to 265PS, is not something that can be unleashed in Tokyo, but the honest and straightforward engine characteristics are what make the GTI so great.

The ride feels a bit jerky up and down at low and medium speeds, but doesn’t feel like it’s being pushed up too hard. The amount of road information it receives is similar to the sports suspension of the “TDI” that I test drove at the same time, but the GTI is equipped with a variable adaptive chassis with DCC, which gives it a more precise and luxurious feel in how it transmits damping. Even in comfort mode, the suspension seems to focus better on smooth highways like the Autobahn, but if you prioritize ride comfort, you won’t need many licenses to do so.

A hot hatch that lets drivers enjoy the process

That said, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy sport mode around town. The shift selection is one or two steps lower, and the input gain of the controls becomes more sensitive, but the suspension doesn’t stiffen up ostentatiously, but rather helps to suppress changes in the vehicle’s posture. When going over large bumps, the deep suction action and quick acceleration are impressive. The brake touch also has a certain amount of stroke when you press it down, but it’s easy to control when you release it.

In other words, the Golf GTI is not a car that simply rushes for output, such as being fast by simply driving it aimlessly. It is a car that allows the driver to enjoy the process, to enjoy precise driving, and reach a hot and exciting realm. It is a true, unique hot hatch that faithfully responds to the enthusiasm of the driver.

REPORT / Kazuhiro NANYO

PHOTO / Kazuhiro NANYO, GENROQ

SPECIFICATIONS

Volkswagen Golf GTI

Body size: Length 4295, Width 1790, Height 1465mm

Wheelbase: 2620mm

Vehicle weight: 1430kg

Engine: Inline 4-cylinder turbo

Total displacement: 1984cc

Engine maximum output: 195kW (265PS) / 5250-6500rpm

Engine maximum torque: 370Nm / 1600-4500rpm

Transmission: 7-speed DCT

Drive system: FWD

Suspension: Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link

Brakes: Ventilated disc

Tire size: 235/35R19 (DCC package installed)

Vehicle price: 5,498,000 yen