The 2022 VW Golf GTI and Golf R have been unveiled in the U.S. at the Chicago Auto Show and seem bound to be among the country’s most popular hot hatches.
Powering the Mk8 Golf GTI is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 241 hp and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque. That may be down on some of its rivals but customers we’ll be pleased to know the hatch is available with a six-speed manual transmission as standard and can be optioned with a seven-speed dual-clutch. Like all GTI models before it, power is sent exclusively through the front wheels.
Read More: 2022 VW Golf R Arrives In The U.S. With 315 HP And A Manual Gearbox From $44,640
U.S. buyers have three different trim levels to choose from: the GTI S, the GTI SE, and the GTI Autobahn. The entry-level model comes packed with an impressive array of features, including a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8.25-inch infotainment screen. It also has a seven-speaker sound system and ambient lighting with 30 different colors.
Stepping up to the GTI SE will give customers automatic high beams, a 10-inch infotainment screen, a Harman/Kardon 480-watt nine-speaker audio system, wireless App-Connect for compatible devices, and Wi-Fi capability. The GTI Autobahn comes with things like 19-inch wheels, summer performance tires, DCC Adaptive Damping, 12-way adjustable driver’s seat, and more.
Prices start at $29,545 before destination for the GTI S.
Like the Golf GTI, the new Golf R is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. However, it delivers a more impressive 315 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque with the DSG or 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) with the six-speed manual transmission. The Golf R is also fitted with an advanced 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with rear-axle torque vectoring.
Only a single trim level will be offered for the Golf R, priced from $43,645 with the manual and $44,445 with the DSG, excluding a $995 destination fee.
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