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Volkswagen Golf GTI Specifications & Features
Include the 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI in the exclusive league of vehicles that have upheld continuous production for over four decades, unwavering from the original focused purpose. The 2022 update signifies the GTI’s eighth generation in the US, presenting a sleek and modern design that retains its distinct “box with an edge” character. Powering it is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 241 horsepower, matched with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a convenient seven-speed automatic for those seeking ease. Front-wheel drive is standard for all GTI models. Regardless of stature, drivers will discover ample space and a comfortable driving stance. The four-door hatchback configuration surprises rear passengers with generous head and shoulder room, accompanied by cargo space behind them. This fusion of heritage and contemporary refinement solidifies the Volkswagen Golf GTI’s legacy.
What’s New?
Very little has changed. The recent 2022 redesign remains current, although VW hints at some minor unspecified cosmetic adjustments. The 40th-anniversary edition is no longer available, thus the lineup reverts to the S, SE, and Autobahn trims. Regrettably, VW has confirmed that the six-speed manual transmission will cease after the 2024 model year. So, if you desire one, seize the opportunity now. As a special farewell to the manual transmission, all trims featuring this transmission will receive the new GTI 380 equipment package as standard. This package includes distinctive Graphite Gray paint, black-painted 19-inch wheels, and an adaptive suspension system, providing an enhanced driving experience.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Engine, Power & Performance
Introducing the 2024 Golf GTI, boasting a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a robust 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This marks a significant increase of 13 horsepower and 15 pound-feet compared to its predecessor. The power is seamlessly transmitted to the front wheels through your choice of a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Notably, in a recent test, the current GTI equipped with the dual-clutch automatic accelerated to 60 mph in a swift 5.1 seconds—an impressive 0.7 seconds quicker than the automatic-equipped last-gen Rabbit GTI edition. The enhancements in power and performance make the 2024 Golf GTI a thrilling contender for enthusiasts seeking both style and speed on the road.
Enhancing its straight-line prowess, the car boasts heightened dynamic performance and sharpened reflexes, results of a retuned suspension, electronically controlled limited-slip differential, and brake-induced torque vectoring. This recalibrated chassis strikes a harmonious balance, delivering deft handling without compromising ride comfort during regular driving. For ultimate adaptability, the premium Autobahn variant offers adjustable adaptive dampers matched with 19-inch wheels wrapped in summer tires, catering to those seeking a personalized and versatile driving experience. The braking performance is equally remarkable, as witnessed in the Autobahn-configured GTI, which halts from 70 mph in a mere 151 feet.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Mileage
| Volkswagen Golf GTI | City | Highway |
| GTI | 25 mpg | 34 mpg |
In the past, manual-transmission cars typically outperformed their automatic counterparts in terms of fuel efficiency. However, times have changed, and now even the most efficient Golf GTI boasts an automatic transmission. According to EPA ratings, it achieves 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, just slightly surpassing the manual’s performance by 1 mpg in each category. Despite this marginal difference, we firmly believe that opting for manual shifting is a valuable choice, considering the negligible impact it has on miles per gallon.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Dimensions
| Volkswagen Golf GTI Dimensions | |
| Length | 168.8 in |
| Width | 70.4 in |
| Height | 58.2 in |
| Wheelbase | 103.4 in |
| Cargo Volume | 19.9 ft3 |
| Airbags | 9 Airbags |
The GTI boasts an infotainment setup that employs an 8-inch screen in the S variant and a larger 10-inch display in the SE and higher trims. While the expansive screen enhances visibility and functionality, its touch-capacitive “slider” controls for audio functions can be a source of frustration during practical use. In the S model, an 8-inch screen is offered with convenient compact volume and tuning knobs, making it a viable alternative. Moreover, the vehicle features four USB-C ports, with two positioned upfront for data and power and an additional two at the rear for power supply. Accompanying this, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are integrated, offering familiar phone applications and menu layouts that counterbalance Volkswagen’s otherwise intricate and potentially distracting interface.
Pricing
| Volkswagen Golf GTI Trims | Price (USD) |
| S Automatic | $33,000 (est) |
| 380 S Manual | $33,635 |
| SE Automatic | $38,000 (est) |
| 380 SE Manual | $38,435 |
| 380 Autobahn Manual | $41,775 |
| Autobahn Automatic | $42,000 (est) |
Though the “base” GTI S comes with a limited-slip differential, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 18-inch wheels, and a 10.3-inch digital instrument panel, we feel the jump to the SE is a worthy move as it adds a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 480-watt Karman/Hardon audio system, a cool illuminated grille, keyless entry, pushbutton start, and a sunroof. The standard six-speed manual is the business, and adding the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic costs $800 so let’s pretend it doesn’t even exist, shall we? The SE can also be fitted with leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and memory settings for the driver’s seat, but that means ditching the GTI’s traditional cloth seats and their plaid design. We’d never do that.
Specifications, Quarter Mile, 0-60 Mph & Top-Speed
| Volkswagen Golf GTI Specifications | Specs |
| Engine | 2.0L twin-turbo inline-4 |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Horsepower | 241 hp |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.1 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 12.2 sec |
| 1/4 Mile | 13.6 sec @ 105 mph |
| Top-Speed | 155 mph |