A new Volkswagen Golf GTI arrives in the United States for the 2022 model year—in fact, it and the Golf R are the only confirmed versions of the company’s compact hatchback coming to our shores. Before it arrives, Volkswagen is sending off the seventh generation 2021 Golf GTI with some new goodies for its final year on our shores.
Once again offered in S, SE, and Autobahn trims, the 2021 Golf GTI adds visual zest across the board courtesy of new black-painted side mirror covers and rear spoiler. Higher-end SE and Autobahn models also benefit from fresh 18-inch wheel designs, as well as an improved infotainment system.
Dubbed MIB3, the new setup brings wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as SiriusXM with 360L, into the hatch’s cabin. Additionally, the system benefits from voice command enhancements and improvements to the in-dash navigation system.
Expect the 2021 Golf GTI to sport a starting price close to that of the 2020 model, which stickers for $29,515. Whether it’s worth waiting for the all-new 2022 Golf GTI or nabbing a 2021 model before the Mk 7 goes off to the big racing circuit in the sky is a decision we’ll leave up to you, the consumer.
That said, we’ve never been shy about our affinity for the current GTI and its 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. While we expect the Mk 8 GTI to improve upon the current car’s dynamics, we’ve still yet to drive the model to confirm our suspicions. In other words, we know the 2021 Golf GTI is a great hot hatch; however, we can only hope the 2022 model follows in its predecessor’s tire tracks.
