Volkswagen Golf GTI (US-Spec)

Published: Jul 15, 2021Modified: Nov 03, 2021

2022 Golf GTI (US-Spec)

Mk8 Golf GTI powered by an updated version of the EA888 2.0-liter engine, producing 241hp and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG® transmission
Reconfigured sport suspension and new vehicle dynamics settings, along with standard torque-sensing limited-slip differential, improve handling
All-new electronic architecture enhances the interior with standard 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, touch interfaces, and 30-color ambient lighting
Standard IQ.DRIVE® driver assistance package includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist (DSG only)
MSRP starts at $29,545

The Golf GTI has defined the term “hot hatch” since its debut in 1976 in Europe and 1983 in the U.S. More than 40 years later, the eighth-generation icon embodies the very same formula—refinement, style, power, and playful performance. As with each new iteration, the all-new Mk8 GTI improves on each piece of the demanding mission statement.

With an entirely new electronic architecture, this is the Golf GTI for the digital age. A new, digitally-networked world of displays and controls enables the driver to customize the look and technology of their Golf GTI more intuitively, and in greater detail, than ever before. At the same time, drivers have greater control of handling characteristics. The new vehicle dynamics system makes its debut in Mk8 Golf family, controlling the XDS® electronic differential lock, the VAQ electronically-controlled, torque-sensing, limited-slip differential, and also the lateral dynamics of the optional DCC® adaptive damping system.

2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI (US-Spec)

The new Golf GTI is also more powerful than ever before. Its 241-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection EA888 evo4 TSI® engine, with maximum torque of 273 pound-feet, can be coupled with a standard manual six-speed transmission or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG®).

The new Golf GTI is lower, longer and sportier than its predecessor. The evolved exterior design bears the styling hallmarks of past GTI models, such as the classic GTI red detailing and honeycomb accents and distinctive C-pillar, while adding a more sharply raked hood, new lighting, and new wheel designs.

Now built in Wolfsburg, Germany, the GTI S is very well equipped at a starting MSRP of $29,545 for the manual transmission and a starting MSRP of $30,345 for the DSG® dual-clutch automatic. Destination for all Golf GTI models is $995.

Exterior

The Golf GTI is an iconic driver’s car. The all-new eighth generation GTI keeps the purist’s conviction, retaining the GTI charisma with its successful interplay between function and aesthetics. Even standing still, the all-new GTI looks eager to run.

The eighth-generation Golf GTI is again based on the successful MQB modular transverse architecture, in this case allowing for even sportier proportions. While the wheelbase remains unchanged from the previous generation, at 103.6 inches, the car is now longer, at 168.8 inches. At 57.6 inches high and 70.4 inches wide, the new GTI looks planted, thanks to the wide air intakes at the front and a striking shoulder line.

Each new body panel was created from scratch, with Volkswagen designers and aerodynamicists collaborating to hone the new Golf GTI. A range of individual measures were taken, including aero-optimized exterior mirrors, aerodynamic corners, a bespoke GTI roof spoiler, extensive underbody paneling, and aerodynamically refined wheelarch linings. Intensive wind tunnel development has returned impressive results, with a drag coefficient of 0.31 and an optimized lift balance.

The exterior design of the new Golf GTI embodies attention to detail. The red strip in the grille is a must for a GTI; that line now stretches across the vehicle’s grille, to either side of the Volkswagen logo. An optional light bar underneath gives the Golf GTI a new and unmistakable light signature. Another striking feature is the large, single-piece honeycomb lower air intake grille, paying homage to previous generations. It is framed on the outside by a black appliqué, with a prominent wing-like design on the sides.

From the side, sharp-cut black side sills form a character line running along the bottom of the GTI from its front splitter to its rear diffuser. The all-new GTI features a forward-shifted C-pillar angle and deep drawn roofline, which accentuates its high-performance character.

The rear of the new Golf GTI is strong, with horizontal lines reinforcing the impression. The twin chrome exhaust tailpipes and roof-mounted spoiler frame new taillights as well as the new Volkswagen brand logo and GTI lettering, now centrally displayed rather than on the driver’s side as it was in the previous generation.

GTI S models come with LED headlights as standard, with Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and five eye-catching LEDs in each side of the front bumper that create X-shaped foglights. All GTI models now come with puddle lights, which project a unique polka-dot pattern onto the ground from the exterior mirrors, and feature illuminated door-handle recesses. SE and Autobahn models use upgraded LED headlights with the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), foglamps featuring integrated cornering lights, and the illuminated grille. The Autobahn trim further adds Light Assist (High Beam Control for headlights). All GTI models feature a newly designed LED rear taillamp cluster.

The all-new Golf GTI is offered with a range of new aluminum-alloy wheels. S and SE models come with 18-inch wheels with 225/40 all-season tires as standard; SE models also offer optional 18-inch gloss black wheels. Autobahn models feature 19-inch diamond-turned surface alloys wrapped with 235/35 summer tires. Trademark red brake calipers reside behind every wheel option.

The all-new Golf GTI is offered in seven vibrant exterior colors—five of which are new for GTI. Joining Deep Black Pearl Metallic and Reflex Silver Metallic are Atlantic Blue Metallic, Kings Red Metallic, Moonstone Gray, and Oryx White Pearl. The fifth new color option, Pomelo Yellow Metallic, will be available as a launch option with Autobahn models, with only one offered to each dealer.

Interior

The 2022 Golf GTI features an enthusiast-oriented cabin that is at the same time highly practical. There is 91.9 cu-ft of interior room, along with 19.9 cu-ft of luggage space—space that rivals midsize sedans. The versatility of the load space is enhanced by a trunk floor that can be raised or lowered, while the 60:40 split backrest can be folded down to give an almost flat cargo area of 34.5 cu-ft.

New, heated and bolstered front sports seats recall the first Golf GTI with their unique ergonomics, integrated head restraints, red stitching, and standard grey and black tartan “Scalepaper” style fabric on the seat and backrest areas. SE models offer optional Vienna leather seating surfaces in two-tone black and grey with red accents, which are standard on Autobahn. Red is also used for decorative seams and edging on all trims.

The seat position, height of the golf-ball manual transmission shifter and the spacing between the pedals are fine-tuned for increased driver comfort. This driver-centric design focus is evident from the center stack, which is angled slightly towards the driver—a trait frequently seen in premium luxury and performance vehicles. The Golf GTI has a premium performance personality that is further accentuated with black headliner and honeycomb trim, buttons that are backlit in white, and the use of premium materials and soft-touch plastics throughout. Brushed stainless-steel pedals are standard on all trims.

The driver controls are positioned to help optimize ergonomics and usability—defying convention where needed to streamline the look and feel of the cabin. For instance, the driving lights and defrost functions are now operated using a shared “Light and Sight” digital panel to the left of the steering wheel. Touch sliders are used below the infotainment display to adjust the standard Climatronic® automatic climate control and to change audio volume.

The Mk8 Golf GTI boasts a new heated multifunction sport steering wheel with touch controls. The three silver spokes have been retained, with a red outline on the lower spoke surrounding a GTI wheel clip. The steering wheel features controls for the Digital Cockpit and has touchpads for volume adjustment and audio selections. On the left side of the steering wheel, a Travel Assist button engages the standard partially-automated IQ.DRIVE® system and capacitive sensors monitor to make sure the driver has their hands on the wheel. Models equipped with DSG® add paddle shifters.

Ambient lighting is standard on the Mk8 GTI and washes the interior with color. Thirty colors are selectable and illuminate the decorative trim in the dash and doors, storage compartments in the doors and center console, and the footwells. The digital instruments and infotainment system also take on the selected background color. Along with the individual colors, pre-configured “mood” lighting profiles can be selected.

Every 2022 Golf GTI is equipped with a plethora of comfort and convenience features. All trims have standard Climatronic® Touch automatic climate control, automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlights, auto-dimming rearview mirror, LED reading lights, and push-button start. SE models add KESSY® keyless access, an all-new harman/kardon premium audio system, and Volkswagen Car-Net® with Wi-Fi capability when you subscribe to a data plan. The optional leather package adds driver seat power with memory and ventilation for front seats. The top-of-the-line Autobahn further adds three-zone Climatronic® with controls for rear seat passengers, , standard Vienna leather sports seats, a 12-way power driver’s seat with memory, ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and a head-up display, which is digitally projected onto the windshield, virtually floating in front of the driver.

An enlarged panoramic power tilt and slide sunroof is standard on the SE and Autobahn trims, operated by a touch slider at the front of the headliner. The new panoramic sunroof has a new full-glass appearance with far fewer joints and a 5-percent larger glazed area. To satisfy the audiophile ear, GTI SE and Autobahn models feature a harman/kardon audio system with 480 watts, nine speakers and a 12-channel amplifer and subwoofer.

A key differentiating feature of the 2022 Golf GTI is its technologically advanced cabin, which offers an integrated high-end digital experience. The standard Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster as well as the MIB3 infotainment screen activate the moment the doors are opened, and the engine start button pulses red until the engine is started.

Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro. The advanced Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro system, standard on all GTI models, presents drivers with a fully configurable 10.25-inch display with three views and 21 viewing options, including car status, navigation, driving data, phone information, driver assistance features, and more. Models equipped with the Discover Pro infotainment system with navigation are able to display a full screen map in the digital cluster and simultaneously on the center display.

User experience designers have developed a unique GTI graphics layout for the standard Digital Cockpit. It can be opened using the new “View” button on the steering wheel and consists of a combination of three round instruments: the rev counter with GTI logo in the center surrounded by one round instrument each on the left and right. These can be individually assigned, for instance to show the engine’s boost pressure or the current power output.

MIB3 Infotainment. All 2022 GTI models feature innovative Volkswagen MIB3 touchscreen infotainment systems. The displays utilize a capacitive-touch sensor (as in smartphone and tablet technology) rather than the more common resistive touchscreens that require pressure, enabling controls like swiping and even pinch-zooming. Bluetooth technology for compatible devices is standard, as is App-Connect smartphone integration for compatible devices, which offers users the ability to run select smartphone apps directly on the vehicle’s display through services such as Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and MirrorLink®.

The GTI S features a Composition Color MIB3 infotainment system with a glass-covered 8.25-inch display, wireless charging for compatible devices, multi-phone pairing, HD radio, and four USB-C ports—two front, two charge-only rear. The GTI SE and Autobahn upgrade to Volkswagen’s Discover Pro unit with navigation and a 10-inch display, voice control, and SiriusXM® with 360L (three-month Premium Plan trial). With a paid Car-Net Hotspot subscription and Plus Nav package, maps can be automatically updated with current traffic and construction information.

SiriusXM with 360L. offer the most advanced audio entertainment platform—SiriusXM with 360L. SiriusXM’s next-generation platform combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience and provides more options than before, including access to more than 10,000 hours of SiriusXM’s recorded On Demand content, and more live channels, available by subscription (three-month Platinum Plan trial package included). SiriusXM with 360L’s personalized “For You” recommendations help listeners to discover more of what they love based on listening habits and are served on screen in an easy-to-find, easy-to-use format. The enhanced sports play-by-play offering makes it easier to find the listener’s favorite team when it is game time, and individual listener profiles allow multiple drivers and passengers to customize their own favorite channels.

Volkswagen Car-Net®. Since its debut for the 2014 model year, Volkswagen Car-Net has allowed Volkswagen owners to get connected to their vehicles. For model year 2022, Car-Net Services will be offered in three areas: Remote Access, Safe & Secure, and Hotspot. For vehicles equipped with a MIB3 system and an active data plan, additional online features are available with a paid subscription that provides enhanced navigation and infotainment.

Car-Net Remote Access allows owners the ability to interact with their vehicle from miles away via the mobile app. It is offered at no additional charge for five years from the date of vehicle purchase. Features include remote door lock and unlock, remote honk and flash of lights, last parked location, and remote vehicle status display, which provides information on estimated fuel level and mileage and door and window status.

VW Car-Net skills for Amazon AlexaTM are now available for most new Volkswagen vehicles. To set up, owners should open the skills page associated with their car model in their Alexa app and link the skill to their VW Car-Net account. This will allow them to use their voice on an Alexa-enabled device to ask Alexa to send remote commands from the comfort of their own home—for instance: “Alexa, ask Car-Net to honk my horn.”

For vehicles equipped with factory-installed navigation systems, Car-Net can make customers lives easier by locating off-street parking information and sending destinations or points of interest directly to their car from the app. Powered by ParkopediaTM, the Parking Information feature can help make owners’ lives easier by locating off-street parking information. Through the Navigate tab on the app, users can click the “P” icon to show available parking locations, either in the immediate vicinity or near a Point of Interest. Clicking on a specific location will display the address, hours of operation and pricing. Users can also send the location to their car’s navigation system, if so equipped, by clicking the “Send to My VW” button.

Vehicle Health Reports can provide owners easy access to diagnostic information. Reports generate automatically each month after enrollment and are sent directly to the email address in the owner’s profile; owners can also request updated reports anytime through the mobile app. When it’s time for scheduled service, Car-Net can not only notify the customer, but also provides a simple way to schedule a dealer visit.

Family Guardian services and Roadside Call Assist can provide added peace-of-mind no matter who is driving. Speed Alert notifies the owner when the pre-determined maximum speed limit is exceeded. Boundary Alert lets the owner know when the vehicle has traveled outside of a pre-set virtual boundary. Curfew Alert notifies the owner if the vehicle is driven while curfew alert is on. Valet Alert warns if the vehicle is driven more than 0.2 miles from the valet drop-off location. The Car-Net app allows users to control who receives notifications by designating primary and secondary users, with varying levels of control and functionality for each. Notifications can come in the form of text messages, emails, or push notifications from the mobile app itself. If the vehicle is disabled, Roadside Call Assist is available at the touch of the wrench button.

Car-Net Safe & Secure is a paid subscription service that includes Information Assistance, Emergency Assistance, Automatic Crash Notification, Anti-Theft Alert, and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance. The current subscription price is $159 per year before taxes and fees, and automatically renews annually at the end of the subscription term, unless cancelled. Information Assistance—accessed through the i-call button within the vehicle—allows the driver to speak to a Car-Net agent for support needs, such as points of interest and account services. Emergency Assistance can be accessed through the SOS button in the vehicle, and, if a cellular connection can be established, puts the driver in contact with the Car-Net service center, who can direct emergency responders to the vehicle’s location and notify the user’s Emergency Contact. Provided a cellular connection can be established, Automatic Crash Notification can help automatically notify an operator who can quickly contact first responders in the event of a collision. Anti-Theft Alert sends a push notification to the user if the vehicle’s anti-theft alarm is triggered, and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance uses Car-Net to assist law enforcement with locating the vehicle in the event that it is stolen.

Car-Net Hotspot (not available on GTI S) allows passengers to access the internet with up to four connected devices simultaneously, including compatible tablets, smartphones, laptops, gaming devices, and more— at 4G LTE-enabled speed. Volkswagen recently introduced Carrier of Choice, giving our customers the option to select a data plan from either VerizonTM or T-Mobile ®. With just a few clicks in the VW Car-Net mobile app or at vw.com/carnet, owners can add their new Volkswagen vehicle to their existing mobile data plan or purchase a new one. Verizon Wireless or T-Mobile customers with an existing mobile data plan can simply add their Volkswagen vehicle as a new line item to their existing monthly bill; non-Verizon or T-Mobile customers can set up an unlimited plan for $20/month, taxes and fees may apply.

Car-Net Hotspot also offers additional annual paid subscription packages to enhance the navigation and infotainment experience for MY22 VW owners with a factory-installed MIB3 infotainment system. With an active data plan, the Plus Nav package ($49/year) allows drivers to access online map updates, traffic reports, fuel prices, and parking information. The Plus Speech package ($9/year) offers advance voice controls using natural language to enhance map destination entry for addresses and points of interest, media on demand and online radio. The Plus Online Radio Package ($8/year) offers online internet radio with 30,000+ radio stations and podcasts. Media streaming apps can also be accessed at no additional charge, including iHeartRadioTM and TIDALTM (both require existing accounts).

Powertrain

The Golf GTI is powered by a compact turbocharged engine, just like the past four generations. The 2.0-liter TSI® turbocharged and direct-injection unit that powers the all-new Golf GTI is a member of the latest, fourth generation EA888 engine family and is now built in Volkswagen’s state-of-the-art factory in Gyor, Hungary.

The GTI’s EA888 evo4 engine displaces 1984cc and produces 241 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque at just 1,750 rpm. The evo4 engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed DSG automatic transmission with Tiptronic®. The DSG transmission incorporates a Start-Stop System designed to save fuel, as well as a launch control feature.

The EA888 engine line is a masterpiece of modern engine design that balances performance, efficiency, and drivability in a lightweight and compact package. The powerful four-cylinder engine uses an aluminum-alloy crossflow cylinder head that houses dual overhead camshafts. Volkswagen’s latest variable cam phasing system, which controls both intake and exhaust valves, as well as a variable lift system for the exhaust valves, help allow the traditionally opposing goals of performance and efficiency to be met simultaneously. The exhaust headers of the EA888 engine have been integrated directly into the cylinder head. This not only improves the system coolant operation (aiding rapid warm-up, which helps improve efficiency), but also allows greater thermal management of the exhaust stream. This, along with a turbocharger that can withstand extremely high exhaust temperatures, means the forced-induction system doesn’t require complex fuel enrichments under high load, helping improve efficiency at the other side of the curve.

The next-generation EA888 evo4 has been enhanced to optimize power development. Fuel is delivered by the latest high-pressure direct-fuel-injection system at 5,076 pounds per square inch, compared to 2,900 psi on the previous EA888 engine. Internal friction is minimized compared to its predecessor, which helps the GTI hold its torque peak over a broader rpm range and gives the new Golf GTI noticeably more tractive power. A secondary benefit of reduced friction is that engine acoustics are improved.

EPA-estimated fuel economy for Golf GTI models, when equipped with the six-speed manual, is 24 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. When equipped with the optional seven-speed DSG transmission, EPA-estimated fuel economy is 25 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined.

Chassis

The eighth-generation Golf GTI is built on Volkswagen’s MQB modular platform. The unitary construction chassis has two solid-mounted subframes with bolt-on front fenders, and utilizes technologies such as the laser clamp welder, which produces “wobble seam” welds in a wave pattern to help maximize strength in a limited space.

The Golf GTI has a stamped steel body and chassis that boasts a large percentage of high-strength, hot-formed steel. This technology allows much of the chassis and body to be constructed from thinner and lighter parts without loss in strength. In this new generation, the chassis benefits from a further increase in the use of ultra-high strength steel. Significantly, the Mk8 GTI front suspension weight has been cut by nearly seven pounds, thanks to a new aluminum subframe.

The running gear on the new GTI features several modifications designed to increase precision and driving stability. The strut-type front suspension has reconfigured wishbone bearings and revised damping hydraulics. The springs and buffer stops are reconfigured as well, to give a front axle spring rate five percent higher than Mk7 GTI. The multilink rear axle features similar modifications, including a new wheel mount, wishbone bearing and spring setup, as well as reconfigured auxiliary springs. The spring rate at the rear axle increases by 15 percent compared with the Mk7. The damping bearings are new, as are the damping hydraulics.

On the Mk8 models, new vehicle dynamics settings closely integrate the electronic stability control (ESC) with the electronic differential lock (XDS®) and the optional DCC® adaptive damping system. By adapting the individual wheel damping 200 times a second, it can deliver particularly agile and accurate handling.

The new GTI comes standard with the electronically controlled torque-sensing limited-slip VAQ differential. Compared with mechanically operated differentials, the system in the GTI offers a variable degree of intervention depending on the actual driving situation and ESC, EDS and XDS+ functions. This makes it possible to avoid steering corruption, as is the case with purely mechanical differentials. The VAQ differential optimizes grip and handling in fast corners, thus enhancing the performance and helping to decrease understeer, a traditional weakness of front-drive cars.

The GTI can handle corners in a neutral stance and also accelerates without any loss of traction. This is due in part to the fact that the amount of VAQ differential locking torque can be significantly increased in Sport mode. On the racetrack, it is possible to adapt the ESC intervention in two stages. In ESC Sport mode, the ESC thresholds and ASR slip thresholds are increased to reduce the intensity of interventions. In ESC Off mode, ambitious drivers can deactivate ESC altogether.

The 2022 Golf GTI models come equipped with large 13.4-inch front and 12.2-inch rear vented disc brakes. An advanced electromechanical brake servo helps to sharpen pedal response, shortening braking distances in testing. At the same time, the system allows precise brake pedal modulation in higher brake pressure range.

Driving Mode Selection. All GTI models feature standard Driving Mode Selection with four modes: “Comfort,” “Normal,” “Sport,” and “Custom.” Comfort and Sport have a different steering weight and throttle response, while Custom allows a driver to tailor the steering and throttle to their preference. On cars with the DSG transmission, the Sport mode gives more aggressive shifts. In Comfort mode, shift algorithms optimize compliance and steering effort lightens, and throttle response and ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) acceleration are lowered. In Eco mode, shift algorithms optimize fuel efficiency.

DCC. The Golf GTI Autobahn features the latest version of the DCC adaptive damping system, which manages the suspension’s rebound and compression rates individually, helping to improve vehicle dynamics. The DCC adaptive damping system continuously reacts to the road surface and driving situation while taking account of various inputs including steering, braking, and acceleration. By means of the set driving profile mode, the driver can influence the reduction in body motion as desired. The required damping is calculated for each wheel and adjusted within fractions of a second. This ensures that DCC always provides the highest level of driving comfort and ideal driving dynamics in conjunction with the vehicle dynamics system. For example, “Comfort” optimizes the dampers for a smooth highway ride, while “Sport” favors a firmer setting for better cornering performance.

In the latest DCC generation, the vehicle setup can be extended in “Custom” mode to go beyond the existing range of the fixed “Comfort,” “Normal,” and “Sport” modes. The driver can set and store their personal driving profile using a digital slider to adjust damping firmness. Beyond the “Comfort” setting, the body is isolated from the road surface as much as possible. Beyond “Sport” mode, there is an extended setting range with maximum damping for minimized body movements and extremely direct handling for that unbridled GTI feeling.

ESC Sport. Another standout feature on the Golf GTI is the ESC Sport and ESC Off functions, for very experienced drivers for use only on closed courses, such as a racetrack. The system is activated by accessing the “Vehicle” menu from the infotainment display. In ESC Sport mode, the ESC thresholds and traction control (ASR) slip thresholds are increased to reduce the intensity of interventions. In ESC Off mode, ambitious drivers can deactivate ESC altogether. However, Front Assist and Swerve Assist reactivate ESC in emergencies.

Progressive variable-ratio steering. Enhanced “progressive” steering is standard on the new GTI. The engineers set up the steering ratio more directly than a standard linear steering gear while applying new software algorithms. While conventional steering systems operate on the basis of a fixed gear ratio, the steering in the GTI applies a progressive gear ratio. This significantly reduces the amount of lock required to steer when maneuvering and parking. On winding country roads and when turning off, the driver will notice sharper responses thanks to the more direct setup. It also means that the driver does not have to change their hand position as frequently.

Lock-to-lock, there are just 2.1 turns in the new GTI (with 18-inch wheels and tires). Progressive steering is differentiated from basic rack-and-pinion steering system by variable gearing as well as a more powerful electric motor. In contrast to systems with a fixed steering ratio, the transition between indirect steering straight-ahead response and direct response to larger turning angles is more agile.

Safety and Driver Assistance

To help protect occupants, the Golf GTI provides a combination of both passive and active safety systems. It features six airbags as standard (front and side airbags for front passengers and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions), along with a number of electronic safety systems, such as an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). All Golf GTI models feature a standard rearview camera.

A standard feature on the Golf GTI is Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. This builds on the premise that a collision is rarely a single, instantaneous action, but rather a series of events that follow the initial impact—the most significant of which can cause additional collisions. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System helps address this, in certain crash scenarios, by applying the brakes when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, thus potentially reducing residual kinetic energy and, in turn, the chance of additional damage.

The Golf GTI also includes Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System that shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.

Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE advanced driver assistance technology features hands-on semi-autonomous capability. On the highway, IQ.DRIVE features lane centering and a capacitive steering wheel to make driving easier. Around town, IQ.DRIVE alerts you to surprise obstacles in front of you, and keeps an eye around you to help make driving safer.

The IQ.DRIVE system is available on all trims. The system utilizes front and rear radar, a front camera and several ultrasound sensors to collect data from the surrounding area, enabling Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance); Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring); Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor); Rear Traffic Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go; Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System); and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency). Emergency Assist is only available on models equipped with automatic transmission.

Travel Assist, standard on all trims, enables semi-autonomous hands-on driving capability from 0 to 95 mph. Travel Assist can be activated by a button on the steering wheel, and uses the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Assist (Lane Keeping Assist) features to help to steer as well as accelerate and brake the vehicle in response to traffic and center the vehicle within lane markings. This allows the driver to observe driving tasks while using minimal force on the wheel. It is the driver’s responsibility to continuously monitor the system, remain alert, and maintain control of the vehicle at all times. To ensure this, Travel Assist monitors the capacitive steering wheel to make sure the driver has their hands on it. When Travel Assist is active, the cockpit display can show the lane markings (solid or dotted) and adjacent vehicles (car, motorcycle or box truck).

Front Assist, standard on all trims, is intended to warn drivers of potential frontal collisions (Forward Collision Warning) with vehicles and pedestrians, and in some cases provide automatic braking assistance (Autonomous Emergency Braking). New for 2022, the system can now detect cyclists or pedestrians traveling parallel to the vehicle and alert the driver if they turn into the vehicle’s path.

Within physical system limits, Forward Collision Warning warns the driver of potential critical front-end collision situations, both acoustically and visually by a warning symbol in the instrument cluster if the car is traveling above 18 mph. Furthermore, an automatic jolt of the brakes can warn the driver of the danger. If the driver fails to brake, Autonomous Emergency Braking is activated to help slow the vehicle. If the car is traveling below 18 mph and the system detects a potential front-end collision, Autonomous Emergency Braking activates without a prior acoustic and visual warning. If the brake pedal is applied but the driver brakes too lightly, the brake pressure is increased by the system (Braking Support).

Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor) is standard on all trims. Side Assist uses two radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle to scan the approaching traffic and is intended to warn drivers of the presence of other vehicles in adjacent lanes. If the driver uses the turn signal to indicate a lane change while a vehicle is detected in a blind spot, the system utilizes a flashing LED symbol in the outer area of the side mirrors. Even if the driver does not use a turn signal, the LED symbol in the mirror will illuminate if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot. The system is designed to help alert drivers in specific situations; stationary objects or oncoming vehicles do not trigger warnings, nor do vehicles more than one lane across away from the vehicle.

If Lane Assist is active, (see below) the system not only warns the driver with the flashing LED symbol if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot, but within system limits, it can also countersteer to help keep the car in its lane even if the turn signal is on. If the driver still tries to steer out of the lane, the system will warn with an additional vibration of the steering wheel.

The Rear Traffic Alert system, standard on all trims, is intended to detect vehicles approaching from the side that may be difficult for the driver to see while reversing. The system offers a 180-degree view of the back of the car with a range of 65 feet, and will present a visual and an acoustic warning, if a potential collision with a crossing vehicle is detected. If the driver does not react, the system can apply the brakes to help mitigate and, in the best case, can prevent a collision. The system is activated by putting the car in reverse.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop & Go, standard on all trims, uses a forward facing radar to maintain a set speed while helping maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. The driver sets the speed and the desired spacing via buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and can further use those buttons to adjust and cancel the ACC function while the accelerator can be used to override the ACC function. Pressing the brakes always cancels the ACC function. All ACC-related system messages appear in the central multifunction display.

When the roadway ahead of the vehicle is clear, the system maintains the set speed. Models fitted with ACC can match speeds with a vehicle in front and come to a stop if the vehicle in front stops. If the car in front moves within three seconds, ACC will resume automatically to the set speed. If the car stands longer than three seconds, the driver can resume ACC control by pressing the accelerator pedal or the “resume” button on the steering wheel.

Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System) is standard on all trims. When driving above 40 mph, if the system’s camera recognizes visible lane markings and, using a special algorithm, calculates that the vehicle is unintentionally straying from its lane without using a turn signal, Lane Assist actively countersteers to help keep the vehicle in its lane. If the driver takes his or her hands off the wheel for a defined period of time, the system provides an audible warning and a visual signal in the instrument cluster, asking the driver to take over.

The system will not intervene if it cannot properly detect lane markings. If the turn signal has been set before crossing a lane marking, the Lane Assist system will not intervene or give a warning. The driver can override the system at any time by applying minimal force to the steering wheel.

Emergency Assist, standard on all trims equipped with automatic transmission, can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver is incapacitated. Emergency Assist constantly monitors the driver’s attentiveness by checking the input of their hands on the steering wheel. If the system does not detect driver input, a series of warnings (visual, audible, and brake jolts) will occur. If still no input is detected, Emergency Assist will slow the vehicle to a gradual stop in its own lane and activate hazard lights. Emergency Assist requires Lane Assist to be active for the system to intervene.

In addition to IQ.DRIVE, the Golf GTI has available Park Distance Control, Park Assist (Parking Steering Assistant), Dynamic Road Sign Display and Light Assist (High Beam Control for headlights).

Park Distance Control, standard on all trims, uses ultrasonic sensors located in the front and rear bumpers to monitor a range of up to approximately five feet in front or behind the vehicle. The system may activate below 9 mph and helps provide guidance when parking or in tight spaces. The system has audible and visual warnings when the car starts to approach parked cars or static objects of sufficient size from the rear.

Maneuver Braking, a part of the Park Distance Control system, is intended to mitigate or help prevent collisions with detected static obstacles to the front and rear while the vehicle is maneuvered. The system is active between 1-6 mph. If the system detects a stationary object, it can apply the brakes automatically to help prevent or mitigate a collision. The system can be deactivated at any time using the touch display or permanently in the setup menu.

Parking Steering Assistant (Park Assist) standard on the Autobahn trim. This system can automatically steer the car into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces (the latter both forward and in reverse). While driving below 25 mph, pressing the Park Assist button in the center console will activate the system to scan the left and right sides of the vehicle for parking spots. By using the turn signal indicator, the driver can indicate which side of the road they would like to park. When the system detects a space, “Parking Space Found” will appear in the multifunction display. The driver only needs to select a gear and activate the accelerator pedal and brake, as Park Assist can automatically help steer the vehicle into the parking space. The driver can override or deactivate the steering assistance at any time by turning the steering wheel, or pressing the button.

Dynamic Road Sign Display, standard on SE and Autobahn trims, uses a forward-facing camera to detect and read road signs. After verifying the information with signage data stored in the onboard navigation, the system alerts the driver on the Discover Media screen in the center console, and on the Digital Cockpit Pro instrument display.

One final driver assistance feature helps provide drivers with better visibility. Light Assist, standard on the Autobahn trim, automatically switches on the headlamp high beams above 37 mph on dark or poorly lit roads, if there is no oncoming traffic detected. Below 18 mph, the high beams automatically switch off.

Warranty & Maintenance

Every 2022 Golf GTI comes with a bumper-to-bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty and Carefree Maintenance Program. The warranty provides coverage for four years or 50,000-miles (whichever occurs first), and can be transferred to a subsequent owner throughout the remainder of its duration. The Carefree Maintenance Program provides scheduled maintenance services for two years or 20,000 miles (whichever occurs first) at no additional charge, and can be transferred to a subsequent owner throughout the remainder of its duration.