What’s New in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R – the Brand’s 8th Generation of Hatchbacks
In anticipation for the Chicago Auto Show next month, Volkswagen has introduced the new 2022 Golf GTI and Golf R along with full pricing and model details. Here is what we know so far:
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
For the 2022 model year, the GTI introduces a variety of interior and handling upgrades for the 8th generation hatchback. The GTI has a starting MSRP of $29,545 and is available in S, SE, and Autobahn trims. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that develops 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque – an increase of 13 horses and 15 pound-feet from its predecessor.
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
According to Car and Driver, the S model will offer a six-speed manual transmission, 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and an 8.3-inch infotainment display, among other features. The next trim up, the SE, will have a sunroof, 10.0-inch infotainment display, and a Harman/Kardon stereo system. The top-spec Autobahn comes with 19-inch wheels with summer tires, leather upholstery, cooled front seats, and a 12-way power driver’s seat.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R
The 2022 Golf R will be available in one fully-loaded trim, with starting MSRP of $43,645. Golf R models feature a blue grille line and brake calipers, a new wheel design, aggressive front and rear bumpers and diffusers, and a large two-piece rear spoiler. Engineers for the Golf R have also designed a new 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD) system with rear-axle torque vectoring. This serves as the foundation for the updated handling abilities one will see in the Golf R.
Available on both the Golf GTI and Golf R is the IQ. DRIVE suite of driver assistance technology, which features hand-on semi-automated capability. This particular system utilizes front and rear radar, a front camera and several ultrasound sensors to collect data from the surrounding area.
Both Mark 8 Golf models are powered by an updated version of the EA888 2.0-liter engine producing 241 hp in the GTI and 315 in the Golf R, and can be paired with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG transmission.
2022 Volkswagen Golf R
“The previous Golf GTI and Golf R models were widely regarded as the best hot hatches you could buy, but the Mark 8 versions up the ante,” said Hein Schafer, Senior Vice President, Product Marketing and Strategy, Volkswagen of America. “Now built in Wolfsburg, the cars have more performance, better handling, more standard equipment and improved tech features, yet minimal price increases.”
3 comment(s) so far on What’s New in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R – the Brand’s 8th Generation of Hatchbacks
Does the 2022 Golf GTI have a cd player? Thanks.
Hi Neal! Unfortunately, the 2022 Golf GTI does not have a CD player in any trim level. As technology has improved in vehicles, more vehicles than ever before have moved to a Bluetooth-centered music platform incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Attached below is an image of the base model 2022 Golf GTI (S trim) and it does not show a CD Player inside. Hope this helps, and we apologize if this isn’t the news you had hoped for.
Great article by Kelly Volkswagen detailing the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R, marking the brand’s 8th generation of hatchbacks. The Golf GTI impresses with its 241-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, delivering a dynamic driving experience.