Volkswagen Golf GTI
Will the Golf's build quality and polished dynamics be enough to fend off the powerful new Alfa?
No car defines its class better than the Golf GTI. There may have been the odd stumble along the way, but the last two incarnations of Volkswagen’s hot hatch have marked a real return to form.
The company is rightly proud of the GTI’s heritage, and this is reflected by the retro styling cues lavished on the current model. Its badges, tartan seats and red grille surround all hark back to the legendary Seventies original.
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Sports seats are a hot hatch staple, and the GTI doesn’t disappoint in this respect. Its supportive designs are some of the best we’ve tried and the driving position is spot-on – although shorter drivers may be impeded by the pronounced side bolsters. Other clues to the Golf’s flagship status include the sculpted steering wheel, which is great to look at and even better to hold.
There is practicality to go with this style, though, so there’s ample space in the wide, well planned rear. Headroom is generous, and while the bench seat isn’t the most supportive, it seats three with ease. Large windows give the cabin an airy feel, despite the racy black roof lining. Further back, boot space is a match for the Alfa.
These models are as much about performance as practicality, and the VW’s 2.0-litre engine is well proven. The TSI direct-injection turbo unit is boosted to 207bhp, and has an engaging soundtrack. It’s focused on flexibility rather than ultimate output. Peak power is spread over a 900rpm range and the 280Nm maximum torque arrives at only 1,700rpm.
This low-down shove was obvious during our in-gear performance tests, where the Golf responded with real vigour. It’s particularly impressive at motorway speeds, covering 50-70mph in sixth in 6.7 seconds – that’s three seconds faster than the more powerful Alfa. Such punchy performance ensures the GTI is quicker in most situations.
Through corners, the Golf isn’t as immediate in its responses, yet the well judged steering provides much more feel. And while the ride is firm at low speeds on our model’s 18-inch alloys, if you up the pace, the car’s depth of talent shines through. The chassis is sharp and stable, with excellent composure, especially as speeds increase. Mid-corner bumps fail to unsettle the Golf, and it takes everything in its stride.
The simplicity of the GTI and the ease with which you can drive it quickly are core to its appeal. And you can forget Alfa’s DNA system. Instead, VW offers buyers the option of its excellent ACC adaptive suspension set-up. For less than £800, it brings supercar technology to the hot hatch class – and it works, too.
On top of all this, the Golf is more efficient, cleaner and feels better built than its rival. It was crowned Best Hot Hatch at our New Car Awards this year (Issue 1,126), and this test reminded us why we rate it so highly.
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WHY: The GTI has evolved over six generations, and the latest is the best yet. It’s a daunting rival for any newcomer, and the Alfa’s fiercest challenge in the closely fought hot hatch class.
