Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R Offer More Power, More Tech, Start Under $32k

Volkswagen has just announced pricing for the all-new 2022 Golf GTI and Golf R models. These are the hot versions of the eighth-generation Golf, offering more power, new levels of performance, and a price that's just a small increase over the outgoing car. And yes, they'll both offer a manual transmission.

These are the first and possibly only versions we'll see of the MK VIII Golf here thanks to the shrinking of the car market and the soaring popularity of SUVs. Still, these are the ones to get. The GTI's new face features LED headlights and offers an available accent light bar in the grille. X-shaped foglights and new wheels highlight the exterior of the car, as does the signature GTI red line accents.

Inside, GTI models get a golf ball manual shift knob, and yes, the tartan seats have returned.

The GTI makes 241 hp and 273 lb-ft, up 13 hp from last year thanks to a revised 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A six-speed stick is standard with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch option. An electronic limited-slip front diff is standard, with the electronic control varying how much the differential comes into play depending on the drive mode and conditions.

The GTI Autobahn adds adaptive lights, keyless access, a 10.0-inch infotainment screen, wireless App-Connect, satellite radio, and road sign recognition and display. The GTI Performance adds 19-inch wheels, performance tires, adaptive damping, leather, and other creature comforts.

The Golf R makes 315 hp, 27 more than before, and either 295 lb-ft with DSG or 280 lb-ft with the stick. A new 4Motion system adds torque vectoring to the rear axle, able to send 100 per cent of rear torque to either rear tire.

Both models get a new 10.25-inch digital cockpit display as standard, letting drivers configure the displayed information to their liking. Uplevel models add the ability to show a full-screen map in the cluster and centre screen at the same time. New touch panels control climate and audio functions, and 30-colour ambient lighting is standard.

IQ.Drive safety tech includes semi-automated driving assist, front collision warning and braking, blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise, rear traffic alert, and park assist.

2022 Golf GTI and Golf R models are expected to arrive next quarter. The GTI starts from $31,495 with a manual transmission; the Golf R is offered in one trim level, from $44,995.

2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI Canadian Pricing

Golf GTI 6MT: $31,495
Golf GTI DSG: $32,895
Golf GTI Autobahn 6MT: $34,995
Golf GTI Autobahn DSG: $36,395
Golf GTI Performance 6MT: $38,995
Golf GTI Performance DSG: $40,395

2022 Volkswagen Golf R Canadian Pricing

Golf R 6MT: $44,995
Golf R DSG: $46,395