New VW Golf GTI review *EXCLUSIVE*

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Mat’s got his hands on the updated Golf GTI!

The team flew over to Germany to put the new GTI through its paces and to also find out what’s changed compared to the previous edition. The question is, can it compete with class leaders like the Audi S3 and AMG A35?

For starters, let’s check out the design. Up front, there’s an aggressive lower bumper compared to the standard car, and there’s also a new light design that includes an illuminated VW badge and a DRL light strip across the width of the car. Along the side, you’ll find upgraded brakes with red brake callipers, and around the back, there are redesigned taillights, a small roof spoiler, and an updated bumper. As with any GTI, there are also twin exhaust pipes.

Step inside and there are a handful of upgrades over the standard Golf. There are the traditional GTI tartan seats and a GTI steering wheel. The touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel have been replaced by physical buttons and there's also a set of stainless steel pedals. Otherwise, it’s the same as the normal Golf, which means there’s a large infotainment screen on the dash as well as a customisable digital dial display.

One big change over the previous GTI edition is the performance! It may still have the same 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, but the power output has now increased from 245hp to 265hp! The torque figure has remained the same at 370Nm.

The starting price for the GTI is around £39,000. But are you better off waiting for the upcoming Clubsport edition, which will only cost around £41,000? Or better yet, should you wait for the upcoming Golf R, which will only cost around £4,000 more?! You’ll need to stick with Mat and find out for yourself!

Chapters
00:00 Engine
00:31 0-60mph & 1/4-mile
00:59 Brakes
01:36 Chassis
03:23 Sport Driving
07:28 Price
08:01 Design
09:38 Interior
11:18 Back Seats
11:33 Boot
11:55 Annoying Features
13:47 Daily Driving
14:39 Verdict