Volkswagen Golf GTI and R: 2022 Forbes Wheels Award
Photo Source: Volkswagen
“A genuine sports car triggers the lizard brain and nurtures a highly focused and instinctual conversion between driver and machine. In short, it makes driving fun and engaging, no matter the price. By that measure, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R stand shoulder to shoulder with sports cars of all stripes regardless of price.”
–Andrew Wendler, Assistant Editor of Forbes Wheels
“Hot Hatch” Showdown: 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R and GTI are ideal holiday gifts with accolades to back them, thanks to the 2022 Forbes Wheels Car of the Year. A panel of four Forbes Wheels editors plus eight contributors handpicked the hatchbacks.
Competitive Edge: 2022 Forbes Wheels Car of the Year Selection Process
The competition had seven categories: Crossover, SUV, Sedan, Pickup, Performance Car, Minivans, and Electric. Evaluations measured how each vehicle exhibited handling, efficiency, safety, infotainment, cargo space, and appeal.
Any car or truck qualified, but there were stipulations. It was pertinent that vehicles maintained production through 2021 or 2022 and had to be available for test drives.
Enhanced Performance: 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI Upgrades
The eighth-generation 2022 GTI possesses an abundance of interior and handling enhancements. Yet, even if there’s nowhere to go, leaving the Volkswagen Golf GTI and R is such bittersweet sorrow. A 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro generates a custom display suited to the driver’s desires. The car status, driving data, phone information, album art, and driver assistance features are glimpses of the Cockpit Pro’s customizable characteristics.
Engineered for Excellence: Powertrain Options
Both vehicles proffered an experience unmatched. The Golf GTI and R employ the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection TSI engine. The engine pairs well with the standard six-speed manual transmission or the optional seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic.
The GTI yields 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the Golf R generates 315 horsepower with 280 lb-ft of torque for the manual transmission and 295 lb-ft of torque through the DSG.
Driver-Centric Technology: Volkswagen’s Innovative Approach
The Volkswagen engineers excel at ingenious technology that provides a synonymous experience with the Golf and the driver.
“We’re honored to have these models named Sports Car of the Year against stiff competition. The previous Golf GTI and Golf R models were widely regarded as the best hot hatches you could buy, but the Mark 8 versions up the ante with more performance, better handling, more standard equipment and improved tech features compared to prior generations, yet minimal price increases.”
–Hein Schafer, Senior Vice President, Product Marketing and Strategy, Volkswagen of America
Holiday Gift Guide: Find Your Dream Performance Car at Sunrise Volkswagen!
Nothing screeches Happy Holidays like a new pair of wheels. We hold an inventory that shines brighter than your favorite ornaments. So whether you’re in the market for a new or pre-owned Volkswagen, our service personnel provide you with customer service that’ll warm the coldest winter. No matter the circumstance, our financial center wants to provide an equitable opportunity at your home away from home.