The performance-oriented GTI shares the Golf’s new platform but gets slightly more aggressive styling. Many of the design cues, like the honeycomb grille and front air dam strakes, mirror those of the current GTI. The grille’s red accent line now carries through the headlights, which is a nice touch, and there’s a new badge on the front fenders.
Mike Hanley has more than 20 years of experience reporting on the auto industry. His primary focus is new vehicles, and he's currently a Senior Road Test Editor overseeing expert car reviews and comparison tests. He previously managed Editorial content in the Cars.com Research section.