2015 Volkswagen GTI [REVIEW]

For 2015 VW has completely revamped the Golf and the GTI, but is it just as good? Yes!

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I’m often asked what is the best small car on the market and the list always includes top models, like the Honda Fit and Mazda3, but one small car easily makes the top list – the VW Golf and specifically the GTI. The last-generation GTI was the definition of the perfect hot hatch and I loved it so much, that I actually bought one. Now for 2015 VW has completely revamped the Golf and the GTI, but is it just as good? Yes!
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For starters the seventh-generation Golf moves to VW’s new MQB platform that is shared with other models, like the Audi A3. It’s not only lighter, but also more rigid, which is a great starting place for the new GTI. From there, the GTI also gets a new 2.0L turbocharged engine that generates 210 horsepower, 10 more than the outgoing GTI. If you want more power, there’s also a new Performance Package that adds another 10 horsepower for a total 220 horsepower. The package also adds upgraded brakes and a limited slip differential. Buyers can choose from either a six-speed manual or the six-speed DSG transmission.

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Related: 2015 VW e-Golf is the GTI of electric cars [REVIEW]

So on paper everything sounds great, but how does it drive? It’s great! The GTI’s 2.0L engine packs enough bite to make it a blast to drive. My test car was equipped with the DSG transmission, which is excellent, especially in Sport mode. It’s easy to chirp the wheels from a stop and when pushed hard the GTI constantly just asks for more. Body roll is minimal and the steering is perfectly weighted. Overall the GTI just does exactly what it’s supposed to do. It’s so fun, yet easy to drive that I didn’t want to give it back. The last GTI was easily one of the best hot hatchbacks on the market and the new GTI adds even more.

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Inside the interior feels a bit more refined than the last GTI. The layout is similar, but there are few higher quality parts. Everything is laid out exactly where it should be and it even has a bit of an Audi feel. The only gripe I had about the interior was the infotainment system, which still feels a generation behind the rest of the segment. The interior is very spacious and will easily fit five passengers and their gear, plus add in the fun factor and you have the answer to why the “hot hatch” is one of the best cars you can buy if you want a car that is just at home on the back country roads as it is doing a quick run to Ikea.

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Pricing for the 2015 GTI starts at $24,785, but my tester came equipped with the Autobahn and Performance Package, which bumped the final price up to $34,260.