"Sharp on Winding Roads, Comfortable in Everyday Driving"... Golf GTI [Test Drive]

100-km round-trip test drive from Gangbuk to Namyangju
Stable cornering and brisk acceleration
13.1 km/L fuel economy... and satisfying automated parking

As I turned the steering wheel on a winding road, the car remained stable. Pressing the accelerator brought a brisk surge of speed. The Golf GTI delivered the driving excitement unique to a high-performance hatchback, yet, surprisingly, it was not demanding to drive in everyday conditions. This is the story of Volkswagen's flagship high-performance hatchback, the Golf GTI, which marks its 50th anniversary this year.

Golf GTI. Volkswagen Korea

Last week, I got behind the wheel of the Golf GTI for a round trip of about 100 km from Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, to Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province.

What impressed me first was the weighty steering feel and firm ride. Even the weight transmitted to my hands as I turned the steering wheel felt different from that of an ordinary passenger car. On winding roads in particular, the car followed the driver's inputs while keeping the body stable. Its response when I pressed the accelerator was also lively. It picked up speed smoothly, delivering brisk acceleration without feeling sluggish.

That did not make it a car that was burdensome to drive every day. The Golf GTI is equipped with Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC), which lets drivers adjust the ride to suit their preferences. I found the ride more comfortable when I set the suspension to its softest setting in Individual mode or drove in Comfort mode. The car has a firm character by nature, but it was still perfectly suitable for everyday use, including commuting.

Golf GTI interior. Volkswagen Korea.

In Individual mode, the Golf GTI's engine sound can be adjusted separately. I appreciated being able to turn down the sound setting during everyday driving, when the distinctive noise of a high-performance car can feel intrusive.

Its parking convenience also stood out. I tried the Park Assist Plus feature in a parking lot, and it worked better than expected. The car moved steadily into the parking space and finished neatly centered in the spot.

Fuel economy was also impressive. Over a total distance of 100 km, the car recorded average fuel economy of 13.1 km/L. On expressways, in particular, fuel economy sometimes exceeded 14 km/L when I drove at a steady speed. That was a satisfying level of efficiency for a high-performance gasoline-powered car.

The Golf GTI's driving performance comes from its high-performance 2.0 TSI turbocharged gasoline engine. It produces up to 245 horsepower and 37.7 kg·m of torque. The engine is paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission, combining quick gear changes with efficiency.

The Golf GTI's fuel economy after a 100-km drive. Reporter Choi Youngchan

The exterior features design elements unique to the GTI. The front is fitted with an illuminated Volkswagen logo, called the "Illuminated Logo." The GTI-specific badge and dynamic body design also express its identity as a high-performance hatchback.

The interior features Vienna leather premium sports seats. They provide firm support for the driver and come with heating and ventilation functions for comfort in every season. The IQ.DRIVE advanced driver-assistance system and IQ.LIGHT intelligent lighting system are also included, enhancing convenience and safety in everyday driving.

First introduced in 1976, the Golf GTI has established itself over the past 50 years as a leading high-performance hatchback. What impressed me most during this test drive was the balance between powerful driving performance and everyday comfort. For consumers seeking a car they can drive every day without giving up the pleasure of driving, it is well worth considering.

The Golf GTI's official retail price in South Korea is 52.75 million won. The price includes value-added tax and a 5% individual consumption tax.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.