The Volkswagen Golf GTI was one of the original hot hatchbacks decades ago, and it has continued improving every year since.

What’s New for the 2023 Volkswagen GTI

Volkswagen just released the new eighth-generation GTI in 2022, so there are no changes on deck for 2023.

Design

The new GTI doesn’t stray far from the car’s traditional formula. VW gave it some new lighting elements in the front, including an LED light bar for some configurations, and the fog lights are set into the lower grille in a unique five-star pattern. The hatch has a simple rear end, with the GTI logo remaining in its traditional font.

Powertrain

The 2023 VW GTI has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It’s paired with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD). Volkswagen gave the car a trick differential that helps eliminate torque steer and improve handling, and the GTI is quick to 60 mph, thanks to its lively turbocharged powertrain. The six-speed manual has great shifter and clutch feel, as most VWs do, but the dual-clutch is the better option for people seeking the quickest GTI.

Interior

The GTI’s interior looks and feels upscale, even in base form, though it’s not as nice as it has been in years past. The standard plaid cloth upholstery feels good, and heated seats and a heated steering wheel come standard. Leather is available for the midrange SE trim and standard for the top Autobahn trim, and ventilated seats come with the leather package. The car offers surprising space for people and gear, rivaling some small crossovers’ cargo capacity.

Technology

The GTI has an 8.25-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. Wireless charging, seven speakers, Bluetooth, and ambient interior lighting are also standard. A larger 10-inch display is available, bringing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also comes with a Harman Kardon sound system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and navigation.

Volkswagen made waves with the 2022 GTI, as it eschewed almost all physical controls in favor of touch-based systems for nearly every vehicle function. Beyond that, the infotainment system is easy to use and mostly intuitive, though it’s a bit slow on vehicle startup.

Safety

The GTI earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2022, but it hasn’t been subjected to the organization’s new side-crash test. New testing criteria involve a strong impact force, and to earn an award, a vehicle must get an “Acceptable” or “Good” score. Standard tech includes blind-spot monitoring, forward collision alerts, automatic emergency braking, and more.

Pricing

The 2023 Volkswagen GTI starts at $30,530 before taxes, options, and destination. The midrange SE trim starts at $35,330, and the top Autobahn trim starts at $39,070.