Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Review

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is one of our favorite hot hatchbacks thanks to its artfully executed blend of performance, comfort and utility. At its core, the GTI is a performance-oriented variant of the Golf compact hatchback, but the GTI also offers a more comprehensive set of features than the standard Golf.

Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque — a substantial increase over the Golf's 147 hp and 184 lb-ft. The GTI's cabin also receives upgraded materials, including supportive sport seats clad in plaid upholstery — a signature dating back to the first GTI.

Know that a fully redesigned GTI is on its way for the 2022 model year. It will have more power and a sleeker interior design with two large display screens. Still, this final-year GTI has enough positive attributes to make it worth a look. Read our Expert Rating to get our in-depth evaluation.

The 2021 Golf GTI is available in three trim levels: S, SE and Autobahn. All GTIs come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (228 hp, 258 lb-ft) and front-wheel drive. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is optional. Highlight features include:

S The base S trim starts you off with:

• 18-inch wheels with all-season tires
• Limited-slip differential for better acceleration
• Performance brakes
• Heated front seats with plaid upholstery
• 6.5-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
• Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)

SE The SE steps things up a bit, offering the same standard features as the S with a few upgrades such as:

• LED headlights
• Leather upholstery
• Panoramic sunroof
• Keyless entry with push-button start
• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system

Autobahn The top-level Autobahn adds features including:

• Power-adjustable driver's seat
• Standard dual-zone automatic climate control
• Fender audio system
• Adaptive suspension
• Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the GTI and the car in front)
• Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
• Optional summer-rated performance tires