Volkswagen Golf GTI Road Test, Review
One of the joys of the cars of 2014 is their adaptability and the Volkswagen Golf GTI is a great example of this.
In Eco, Normal or Comfort driving modes the Golf gets around…well, just like a Golf – quiet, nice ride, efficient and easy to drive.
In Sport mode though the GTI is a fire breathing fun-machine!
I had a week checking out the version with the six-speed sports automatic transmission, a combo starting at $43,990, if you’re happy to change gears yourself then the six-speed manual Golf GTI will cost you from $41,490.
Under the bonnet the Golf GTI features a turbo charged 2.0 litre petrol engine that develops a peak of 162kW and 350Nm.
Those numbers aren’t huge, but it’s the refined way that the Golf delivers the power to the front wheels that impresses the most.
To sum it up, there are very few other cars on the roads that will keep up with the GTI if you really want it to push it to its limits.
It’s not just fast off the line either; it’s the grip and the handling that really completes this genuine sports model.
Oh and the brakes…amazing!
But again, when you want it to be a Golf, a regular old five-door hatch, the GTI is more than happy to oblige.
Fuel economy is superb, 6.6L/100kms combined (though expect to use more in Sports mode).
Best of all, while the price tag is in the upper reaches of the hatchback price list, this is one well equipped vehicle.
Standard features include; Dual-zone climate control, sat-nav, reversing camera, auto handbrake, Bluetooth and a leather-wrapped sports steering wheel.
Inside the cabin the word is quality, all-round.
Look under the seats and you’ll find handy hidden storage areas, the centre armrest is height adjustable and the seats are fantastic.
You also pick-up timers to keep you in-check with your lap times and best 0-100km/h times etc. and the driver info screen is comprehensive and easy to navigate through and read on the go.
Legroom is good front and back, a good-sized boot, feature lighting and some lovely gloss finish inserts around the cabin finish the nice feel throughout.
As you might expect the VW Golf has a full five-star ANCAP safety rating.
Summing it up – the Golf GTI is a remarkable little car. Amazing performance, comfortable, well-designed, good looks, quality feel and great fuel economy.
It’s hard to think of any way that this car could be improved.
NUTS and BOLTS – 2014 Volkswagen Golf GTI
- Engine: 2.0 litre turbo charged petrol developing 162kW and 350Nm
- Transmission: Six-Speed Manual or Six-Speed DSG (as tested)
- Safety: Five stars
- Warranty: Three years
- Origin: Germany
- Price: From $41,490
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