2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2022 BMW 3 Series

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI, a continuation of the iconic hot hatch lineage, offered a blend of subtle enhancements and performance tweaks that set it apart from the standard Golf. With its distinctive red GTI badges, a red horizontal strip across the grille, and red-painted brake calipers, the GTI exuded a sporty charm. The lowered stance, stainless-steel exhaust tips, and gloss black accents added to its performance-oriented aesthetic. Inside, the GTI maintained the Golf's quality feel, enhanced with sporty touches like red ambient lighting, a race-inspired steering wheel, and heated front sport seats available in Clark plaid cloth or leather. The overall design was a testament to Volkswagen's commitment to quality and performance.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 3 Series, particularly the M340i model, showcased a more luxurious and performance-driven design. The M340i featured exclusive grille and bumper designs, Shadowline exterior trim, and blue brake calipers, all contributing to its sporty appeal. The optional Cooling and High-Performance Tire package added 19-inch wheels, enhancing its stance. Inside, the M340i offered a driver-focused cabin with power-adjustable front sport seats, a thick-rimmed steering wheel, and a trendy Cognac-color SensaTec upholstery. The 3 Series combined quality materials with a technical design, emphasizing driving enjoyment over plush elegance.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI was all about performance, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The GTI's handling was a standout feature, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension and variable-ratio steering. The Autobahn model came with DCC adaptive damping, enhancing its performance on the right roads. However, the GTI's performance-oriented setup resulted in a rough ride on ordinary roads. The GTI offered a choice between a DSG seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a standard six-speed manual, with the latter providing a more engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was respectable, with the GTI achieving up to 27 mpg combined with the dual-clutch transmission.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i, on the other hand, boasted a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. The M340i's drivetrain included an eight-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode, paddle shifters, and launch control, delivering power to the rear wheels through an M Sport differential. The M340i's performance was impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. The car's handling was enhanced by M Sport brakes, variable sport steering, and an optional Adaptive M Suspension. The M340i's driving dynamics were exceptional, offering a thrilling and precise driving experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI excelled in form and function, with its compact hatchback design providing practicality and versatility. With a wheelbase of 103.6 inches and a length of 168.0 inches, the GTI offered a small footprint ideal for urban environments. The hatchback design allowed for 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 24.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GTI's interior featured clever storage solutions, including large front door pockets and a center console with grippy cupholders. The GTI's dimensions and sharp steering made it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i, as a traditional four-door sedan, provided a balance of driving satisfaction and passenger comfort. The M340i's power-adjustable front sport seats offered excellent support, while the rear seats provided adequate legroom for four adults. The 3 Series featured a 17 cubic-foot trunk and a 40/20/40-split folding rear seat design, enhancing its utility. The interior included a three-zone automatic climate control system, with options for heated seats and a heated steering wheel. The M340i's interior storage was decent, but the lack of a sports wagon variant was a missed opportunity for added practicality.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured a standard analog gauge cluster, with a configurable driver information screen. The GTI's infotainment system included the VW MIB touchscreen, with S models using a 6.5-inch screen and SE and Autobahn models featuring an 8-inch screen with navigation. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink, with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. Volkswagen Car-Net offered additional connectivity features, including remote access and Amazon Alexa integration. The GTI also included LED lighting, keyless access, and rain-sensing wipers as standard.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i came equipped with Live Cockpit Professional, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The iDrive 7.0 system was intuitive, with multiple control options, including voice recognition and gesture control. The M340i included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. Connected Package Pro technology provided BMW Remote Services and the Intelligent Personal Assistant. The M340i also offered a head-up display and a range of driver assistance features, enhancing its technological appeal.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Good" scores from the IIHS, with some exceptions. The GTI included a range of standard safety features, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Autobahn trim added adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The GTI's sharp handling also contributed to its safety, potentially helping drivers avoid collisions.

The 2022 BMW 3 Series M340i included Active Guard, with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-departure warning. The optional Driving Assistance package added blind-spot monitoring, while the Driving Assistance Professional package offered advanced features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. The 3 Series earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, ensuring a high level of safety.