Volkswagen Golf GTI

	Inside and out, its details are the perfect blend of retro and modern; the driving position is faultless, the seats supportive and the steering wheel a delight to hold.

In some areas, this Golf remains the benchmark for all hot hatches. Inside and out, its details are the perfect blend of retro and modern; the driving position is faultless, the seats supportive and the steering wheel a delight to hold.

The Golf GTI grabs you from the moment you slip into the driver’s chunky seat. Both the Focus and Clio have followed VW’s lead in this regard – offering a sense of occasion before you’ve even turned the key. This crucial factor makes all three fun to live with on an everyday basis.

But it was how the German hatch performs on the move that made it our 2005 Greatest Drive. And this ability hasn’t diminished – it’s still agile, precise and brilliantly composed. In fact, around Croft, the GTI changed direction better than the Focus ST at speed. The steering isn’t as delicate and the suspension is less absorbent on bumpy roads. But, with excellent traction and wonderful body control, the Golf is fun and reassuring simultaneously.

The turbo unit has a lovely spread of power, while the GTI is good on the track, excellent on the road and makes the £20,000 price tag look like a steal. One of our top all-rounders.

Text AUTO 192286 to 88833 to download the VW Golf GTI engine ringtone to your phone.

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