Prefer it or not, hatchbacks are a dying breed in America as shoppers have embraced crossovers with a cult-like fervor.

One of many largest blows got here in January when Volkswagen announced the standard Golf was being dropped after almost 5 a long time. Nevertheless, it wasn’t all unhealthy information as the corporate confirmed the redesigned efficiency Golf GTI and Golf R could be coming stateside this fall.

The transfer is the last word fan service to fanatics and we lately bought a glimpse of what to anticipate as we monitor examined a Euro-spec Golf GTI Mk8 in opposition to its Mk7 predecessor. This back-to-back comparability might be one of the simplest ways to expertise the brand new mannequin because the Mk8 options small, evolutionary modifications that add as much as be an enormous enchancment.

A Sleeker, Sportier Hatch

Whereas the pandemic has eroded our sense of time, greater than a yr has handed since Volkswagen launched the redesigned Golf GTI. That being mentioned, it’s as good-looking as ever because the mannequin encompasses a sportier and extra fashionable design.

The entrance finish is dominated by a large honeycomb mesh consumption, which options built-in fog lights that kind the form of an X. Above them are slimmer LED headlights and a minimalist grille that includes a well-recognized pink line in addition to an all-new LED mild bar.

The perimeters and rear are extra evolutionary, however the Mk8 options sleeker bodywork and a extra pronounced shoulder line. The mannequin has additionally been outfitted with slimmer taillights, a bespoke rear spoiler, and a twin exhaust system that’s separated by a minimalist diffuser.

The modifications look good and the automobile’s drag coefficient drops from 0.3 to 0.275. That is partially achieved because of aerodynamically optimized mirrors, intensive underbody paneling and new wheel arch linings.

It’s All New And Excessive Tech Inside

Whereas the outside options an evolutionary design, the identical can’t be mentioned concerning the cabin. Going from a Mk7 to a Mk8 is a radical change because the latter adopts a contemporary inside with loads of new expertise.

That is instantly obvious after sliding behind the flat-bottom steering wheel as drivers are greeted by a ten.25-inch digital instrument cluster, which makes the outdated analog gauges really feel hopelessly dated. The cluster is customizable and drivers can press a brand new button on the steering wheel to drag up a show of a central rev counter that’s flanked by reconfigurable gauges. Drivers can even pull up a full-size map to make navigating a little bit simpler.

To the precise is a minimalist dashboard, which is topped by a 10-inch infotainment system. We didn’t have a lot time to mess around with it, however the cabin largely eschews conventional switchgear. Particularly, there are new “contact sliders” which can be used for adjusting the audio quantity and local weather management system. They’re fairly slick and mix into the sprint.

Elsewhere, drivers will discover new sport seats which function traditional tartan upholstery in addition to pink distinction stitching. Different highlights embrace a pulsating begin button and a 30 colour ambient lighting system.

Whereas we didn’t spend a whole lot of time within the Mk8, our preliminary impressions are promising because the seats are snug and provide loads of help for monitor use. There’s additionally loads of room up entrance as this 6’ 2” reviewer didn’t have any issues getting snug behind the wheel even whereas sporting a helmet.

Moreover, the inside appears good though a number of laborious plastics cheapen the expertise. It’s additionally value noting the minimalist design has tradeoffs and followers of bodily switchgear might be upset.

A Extra Highly effective Turbocharged 4

The most recent Golf GTI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 242 hp (180 kW / 245 PS) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque. That’s a modest improve over its predecessor, which had 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. Nevertheless, we’ll repeat right here that these numbers signify the European-specification mannequin that VW dropped at the States, and we could (or could not) see some minor variations by the point it goes on sale right here.

Whereas the distinction is small, it’s noticeable as we had been in a position to hit greater speeds on straight sections of Michigan’s M1 Concourse.  The additional energy additionally helps when accelerating out of corners and Volkswagen famous the GTI Mk8 lapped their Ehra-Lessien check monitor almost 4 seconds sooner than its predecessor.

The engine is related to an ordinary six-speed guide transmission, which works properly and is fairly forgiving. Nevertheless, most drivers will most likely go for the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox which provides quick and easy shifts. It’s additionally value noting the automated comes with a minimalist shifter, which echoes the one discovered on the Porsche 911 and has a separate park button.

The Golf GTI Mk8 Is “All About The Chassis”

Whereas the most recent GTI rides on the acquainted MQB platform, there’s an assortment of modifications to extend grip and enhance driving dynamics.

Beginning up entrance, there’s stiffer springs, new wishbone bearings and revised dampers. Engineers additionally gave the automobile a brand new aluminum subframe, which is sort of 7 lbs (3.2 kg) lighter than the one used within the Mk7.

The multilink rear suspension echoes the entrance because it options new wheel mounts and wishbone bearings in addition to revised springs which can be 15 % stiffer than earlier than. There are additionally reconfigured auxiliary springs in addition to revised dampers.

Sticking with the efficiency theme, the US-spec mannequin will come commonplace with an electronically managed torque sensing limited-slip differential and an accessible adaptive chassis management system with Consolation, Eco, Sport and Particular person modes. The steering has additionally been improved because of a extra direct ratio in addition to new software program and algorithms.

One of many largest modifications is the addition of a brand new Automobile Dynamics Supervisor, which “centrally coordinates all electromechanical working gear capabilities.” It’s a bit laborious to elucidate, however consider it because the GTI’s ‘secret sauce.’

The VDM coordinates and prompts the automobiles varied capabilities – together with the digital stability management, the digital XDS differential lock and the adaptive damping system – and will get them to work collectively. Because the brains of the operation, the system helps to reduce understeer, maximize grip and ship impartial dealing with.

Whereas the system can most likely be greatest defined by somebody with a thick German accent, the outcomes are obvious on the monitor because the GTI feels balanced and provides spectacular ranges of grip. That is clear when driving the Mk7 and Mk8 back-to-back because the newer hatch supplies extra traction and this helps to construct driver confidence.  This, in flip, evokes you to take corners more durable and sooner, and even then the automobile feels utterly safe.

The hatch additionally handles properly and the steering feels spot on.  The brakes additionally present loads of stopping energy and the mannequin is definitely extra enjoyable than some rear-wheel drive coupes. That’s a notable accomplishment and whereas the Golf GTI won’t set any lap information, at the very least you’ll come away with a smile in your face.

A Fan Favourite Improved

We’ll be taught extra concerning the US-spec Golf GTI nearer to launch, however a fast spin within the European mannequin has us excited concerning the future. Its predecessor was a favourite with fanatics and Volkswagen seemingly took all the pieces they liked concerning the automobile and made it higher.

Whereas we nonetheless need to see how the mannequin handles the trials of on a regular basis life, the automobile actually appears promising because it options sportier styling and a extra high-tech inside. Throw in a extra highly effective engine and a brand new Automobile Dynamics Supervisor, and it’s clear the Golf GTI ought to proceed to construct on its sizzling hatch legacy.

Stay image credit: Michael Gauthier for CarScoops