Last of the Hot Hatches?
Remember the days of the hot hatch battles, where every manufacturer from Ford to Peugeot and Honda would vie for the crown with the standard-bearing Volkswagen Golf GTI? Frankly, they appear to be over. And the VW has emerged victorious by dint of being the last man standing.
Okay there are still a few options out there, such as the brilliant Toyota GR Yaris (limited numbers and a now frankly inflated £45k price ticket) and the Honda Civic Type R at an eye-watering £50k (they used to be a performance bargain at £30k), and is it really still a hot hatch? Technically yes, but honestly, it’s more of a performance saloon now.
So, if you still want a storied named from the mythical world of hot hatches that is still playing a field all the other gamers have abandoned, then it’s the Golf GTI for you, but be warned. You’ll have to skip club nights and hold onto your beer money because it ain’t cheap either. The base price is £39,815, but the model I’m testing, loaded with various options, costs £44,825.
“If you still want a storied name from the mythical world of hot hatches, it’s the Golf GTI for you.”
As a long-time admirer of the GTI range, I’ve experienced many of its iterations, but this is my first encounter with the Mark 8 Golf GTI, which debuted around 2020. It features a 2.0-litre TSI engine that delivers 245bhp and 370Nm of torque between 1600 and 4300rpm, mated to a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox. This powertrain propels the car from 0 to 62mph in 6.2 seconds, with a top speed of 155mph. Despite its performance credentials, it manages a respectable combined fuel economy of 39.8mpg.
The exterior of the Golf GTI retains the iconic look with some modern updates. This one is resplendent in Kings Red premium metallic paint (an £885 option) and fitted with optional 19-inch ‘Adelaide’ Black diamond-turned alloy wheels (£820).
Moving to the interior, the GTI maintains its legacy with the classic Jacara upholstery, featuring the familiar tartan pattern. The sports seats are supportive and comfortable, with additional heating from the Winter Pack (£315), which also includes heated washer jets and a low washer fluid light. The panoramic sunroof (£1,090) makes the cabin feel more spacious, but is it worth the money?
“The current GTI is a well-rounded daily driver that does the chores and never bores.”
Obviously, the Golf GTI balances performance with practicality. The boot space is decent, with split-folding rear seats and a ski slot for additional versatility. A space and weight-saving spare wheel (£110) is a welcome addition in an era where many cars forgo a spare altogether. Rear passengers are treated to decent headroom and knee room, with added comforts like rear air vents and USB-C ports. The 10.25-inch infotainment screen offers navigation, media controls, and vehicle settings. It also has Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) (£875).
The engine provides a satisfying growl and responsive performance and while the acceleration may not seem blisteringly fast in an era of electric SUVs hitting sub-four-second times, the GTI’s real-world performance is more about the sensation than the stats. The paddle shifters are quick and punchy and help you engage with the driving experience.
It handles just as you’d expect precise and planted. In sport mode, the car feels taut and eager. The steering is light yet accurate, providing confidence when cornering. The brakes are progressive and reassuring, ensuring you can control the car effectively even in more demanding driving situations. The ride too is surprisingly grown-up comfortable for a road-racer firm enough to maintain good body control, but comfortable enough to keep you fresh on longer journeys. The seats provide excellent support, and the driving position is easily adjustable to find the ideal setup.
“The Volkswagen Golf GTI has emerged victorious by dint of being the last man standing in the hot hatch segment.”
The inclusion of a rear-view camera (£375) aids in parking and tight manoeuvres. Additionally, the Vodafone S5-VTS GPS Tracker (£540.19) offers peace of mind with enhanced vehicle security – you don’t want your GTI to be nicked!
It might have lost some of the raw and rough edges that added to the charm of a classic hot hatch, but the current GTI is a well-rounded daily driver that does the chores and never bores. There is no question that the Volkswagen Golf GTI remains the benchmark in the hot hatch segment, but it might be getting a little lonesome in its dominion. As a survivor in its segment – and one set to continue in petrol guise well into the 2030s according to the latest reports – it’s not just a car, it’s a legacy; proof that the hot hatch spirit is alive and well. Who knows, it might even lure a few players back onto the field.
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