Evolving an icon…
While its debut is not until the second half of 2022, the new VW Golf GTI, marking the eighth generation, is presented with a ton of tech details and many interesting changes that are sure to whet the appetite! Based on the MQB platform, VW is presenting a vehicle bigger and better than ever. It is one that is committed to an increased performance and all-out comfort. From re-worked hydraulics, revised chassis and more power to the debut of a Driving Dynamics Manager that handles all the electronic driving systems, the 2022 GTI is a hugely important, refined and a clear example of driving fun!
IT’S THE TOTAL PACKAGE…
Here’s more!
Exterior evolution
Considered more evolutionary than revolutionary, the car’s exterior has various changes. For example, the new car’s nose is considered quite striking for a conservative redesign, and features a widened lower front fascia with five distinct LED fog lamps peering out from both corners. A thin grille is topped by thin signature LED headlamps connected by a body-width LED headlamp. There are also under-the-door puddle lamps that project onto the ground from the mirrors. This feature comes standard.
With a familiar profile, the tornado-red brake calipers remain, and a 19-inch cast-aluminum wheel option, shod with 235/35 summer tires, will be optional. Standard in the United States will be 18-inch wheels. Also, dual exhaust pipes will return on the left and right sides under the lower fascia.A fancy interior
A fully digital cockpit is part of this dramatic makeover, which also features a new design pattern. Standard tartan plaid seats remain, but presented as an option will be a perforated-leather seat option that will be both heated and ventilated. The new three-spoke multi-functioning steering wheel is once again perforated and a heated wheel will be standard.It also boasts a heavily contoured rim.
While its debut is not until the second half of 2022, the new VW Golf GTI, marking the eighth generation, is presented with a ton of tech details and many interesting changes that are sure to whet the appetite!
Speaking of steering wheel, it features a complement of multi-function touch controls and the instrument panel has digital gauges. Drivers will enjoy an MIB infotainment system which will come with either an 8.25 inch or a 10-inch screen. With sharp red accents throughout, the interior will also feature a 30-color ambient-lighting system that includes a “GTI-specific mode” that comes standard.
Also inside, a shift-by-wire gear selector and steering-wheel paddle-shifters come with the optional 7DSG transmission, and a head-up display projecting onto the windshield will be an option as well.
Power packed
The new 2022 Golf GTI comes with more power and more torque, implying the fourth generation of VW’s EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It will make 242 horsepower and 273-lb-ft of torque, up from 228 and 258 respectively. Standard will be the six-speed manual gearbox and the seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox will once again be optional in both the GTI and the Golf R. Both powertrain options in this new model will interact with selectable drive modes that include Comfort, Eco, Sport and customizable individual settings. These functions also affect the adaptive dampers, which can be switched between softer and firmer motions. And, to balance the extra power the GTI enjoys over the Golf, the suspension is retuned and the car sits 0.6 inches lower.
Better than ever!
When it comes to handling and steering, this new GTI is better than ever! In fact, the manufacturer’s goal was to improve the performance while maintaining comfort, offering better cornering grip, greater stability and precision and even more predictability. The Mac-Pherson-strut front suspension’s wishbone bushings, springs and hydraulics are redesigned with new damper hydraulics and software for its dynamic control. This new GTI will be presented with an electronic booster, which allows the brake-pedal response to be adjusted based on speed and situation. The new GTI is also fit with a larger brake master cylinder which results in better response and easier pressure modulation.
Stay connected/tech savvy
The infotainment system in this all-new GTI is run through a standard 10.0-inch touchscreen, operated via touch-sensitive sliders. The new Golf is expected to offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a Wi-Fi hotspot. There will also be charging ports and most likely an upgraded sound system presented as an option. The new Golf will be tech savvy, with such features as lane keeping assist, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The new GTI is also expected to carry on the current features of adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors and an automated parking system.
Volkswagen created the entire electronic architecture from scratch, resulting in the addition of a long list of features that were not available on its predecessor.
The arrival/what to expect!
The all new Golf GTI is set to arrive in Europe this fall, with the United States debut of the new model the fourth quarter of 2021. This vehicle will be available at a slight price increase to reflect the greater amount of standard equipment. Pricing is expected to start around $30,000, but, make no mistake, you can’t find a better car for less! The new Golf, which will only be sold in a four-door version, is completely redesigned with a fresh look and an overhauled interior with new screens. Experience more power from the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
This all-new model for 2022 is truly a modern iteration of what is, without a doubt, the most recognizable hot hatch on the planet! To that end, VW took a very careful approach when it came to redesigning a familiar shape. It was a challenge to evolve an icon, but the automaker met that task head on! Success has come in so many forms with this vehicle, from outstanding overall performance to improved handling, greater tech features and a racier look. It’s the total package!
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