60 » OpenRoad Driver
2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI
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As the car that invented the hot-hatch segment, the Volkswagen
Golf GTI continues to wave its tartan-patterned flag proudly. It
comes in three- and five-door hatchback versions with a 210-hp
2.0L direct-injected turbo four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual
is standard, while VW’s excellent six-speed dual-clutch DSG
automatic is optional.
Check off the box for the Performance package, and you’ll get a few
more goodies including an extra 10 hp, beefier brakes, and the best
part, a torque-sensing limited-slip front differential that allows you
to put the power down in corners. This has traditionally been a weak
point for front-wheel drive cars, but the limited-slip differential here
works beautifully as advertised.
Few cars can match the all-around appeal of the GTI, which
combines hatchback practicality, reasonably priced driving fun, and
that satisfyingly Teutonic bank vault-sounding thump when closing
the doors.
If you have even more need for speed and want to be the envy of
many a VW owner, the 292-hp all-wheel-drive Golf R is the natural
step up.