Volkswagen Golf GTI 2.0 TSI Review: ..and it goes to - the Volkswagen Golf GTI!!!

Premiering with a punchy, yet linear, 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four engine, mated to an equally talented, award-winning gearbox – the DSG – this has proved to be a very successful formula which Volkswagen subsequently went on to apply on to other models like the handsome hard-top convertible Eos, the Passat 2.0T and the Jetta 2.0T.

Of course, we still prefer this most in small hatch form.

The GTI beats others in its category, such as the Ford Focus ST, Honda UK’s Civic Type R and Renault’s Megane RS.

Looking from the inside, its closest rival to good looks plus functionality is the Civic, with its radical styling and almost cockpit like seating position.

On the outside, the Golf GTI is closely matched by the Megane RS. Though not as daring as the Megane as to have an almost vertical rear windscreen and protruding butt, it does carry a certain sense of class with it; able to turn up at glitzy hotel driveways without looking out of place, while fully capable of making you almost wet your pants if you were on the tracks and spotted one in your side mirrors (side, because chances are it is trying to overtake you).

Suitable as a long distance cruiser also, its leather seats and not-so-hardcore interior add to comfort levels, compared to some of its more Spartan counterparts with wind-it-yourself windows. True, they are lighter and that inadvertently contributes to overall performance. But when you look at the whole picture, why bother? It isn’t a properly stripped-down bare-knuckled racer, so saving that few kilogrammes really doesn’t translate into anything more than a weak marketing ploy.

And of course, one of the main focal points of these cars is the handling. Most are front-engined, front-wheel drive cars and the biggest challenge would be overcoming the understeering tendencies. Unfortunately, it is also the most debatable point. While track timings can prove the best, it doesn’t always necessarily mean it provides the best driving experience.

The GTI has also been highly commended worldwide for being so manoeuverable and a brilliant turner. Though the Focus ST might edge ahead, it doesn’t quite feel as well planted as the former.

Although some might prefer their Hot Hatches really hot, we looked for the best all-rounder – something which anyone could drive about and have not much to complain about, something which you could use to run to the grocer’s with and not end up looking like a twit or that you’ve been trying too hard, something which gets you the respecting envious looks rather than a curious, disapproving squint.

And that’s the GTI.

Credits: Andy Hum and Amery Reuben