I had the privilege to drive the new Golf 7 GTi a few days ago and I can honestly say I can understand why it is still the best-selling “hot hatch” in the world.

Interior:
The interior quality still has that premium luxury feel we have been used to since the Golf 5 GTi. If you have ever driven the old 5 or if you have owned one the cabin will be familiar to you. The controls were easy to navigate and I enjoyed the touch screen radio.

Practicality:
Luggage space is not bad at 380 liters and you can also fold down the back seats for some extra luggage space if needed. The split-folding rear seats lie totally flat. There is also enough room for the family.

Styling:
There was not much change in the GTi’s styling since the release of the GTi 5 but the 7 defiantly stands out in the crowd. The new age “cookie cutter” rims are nice and the red line running through the grill and headlights is a nice touch.

Ride quality:
The ride and handling is superb, turning is sharp and precise. When driving along in daily traffic, the car feels well-mannered and comfortable, but when you push the throttle a bit the GTi’s alter-ego unleashes itself. Much like the incredible Hulk when provoked….lol
VW does a great job to combine a comfortable ride with exciting handling.

Fuel consumption:
I managed to get a combined consumption figure of 8.9l/100km which is good.
But be warned, it goes up considerably when you have a led foot.

Here is some of the standard features included:
• BlueMotion Technology
• Start-Stop with Brake-energy Recuperation
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Anti-Spin Regulation (ASR)
• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Brake Assist and EDL
• Transverse differential lock (XDS)
• Multicollision brake system
• Fatigue detection “Rest Assist” system
• Electronic parking brake with Auto-hold
• Air-conditioner – Climatronic
• Cruise control with speed limiter
• Front driver, passenger and side airbags
• Front and rear curtain airbags

Models:
Golf 7 GTi 2.0 TFSI Manual
Golf 7 GTi 2.0 TFSI DSG (Auto)
Both variants produces a healthy 162kw – 350nm

Verdict:
The GTi’s refinement and ride quality is still the best in its class. My choice is the DSG version, purely because of the slick gearshifts and Gauteng traffic. The GTi is still the “King of the hill”. Its re-sale value is the best in its class.

My pick overall in this segment is the GTi, Ford Focus ST my 2nd choice and the Mercedes A250 in 3rd