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2021
Volkswagen Golf GTI

Starts at:
$28,695
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New 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI
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Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2.0T S Manual
    Starts at
    $28,695
    MPG
    23 City / 30 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    See all specs
  • 2.0T S DSG
    Starts at
    $29,495
    MPG
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    See all specs
  • 2.0T SE Manual
    Starts at
    $32,665
    MPG
    23 City / 30 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    See all specs
  • 2.0T SE DSG
    Starts at
    $33,465
    MPG
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    See all specs
  • 2.0T Autobahn Manual
    Starts at
    $36,945
    MPG
    23 City / 30 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    See all specs
  • 2.0T Autobahn DSG
    Starts at
    $37,745
    MPG
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front Wheel Drive
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Notable features

  • Four-door compact hatchback
  • Turbo four-cylinder engine standard
  • Manual or automatic transmission
  • Automatic emergency braking standard
  • Performance-oriented GTI version available

The good & the bad

The good

  • Handling
  • Engine refinement
  • Cabin materials
  • Versatility

The bad

  • Steering feedback (GTI)
  • Clutch feel (manual transmission)

Expert 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI review

Our expert's take
By Cars.com Editors
Full article

What Is the 2021 Volkswagen Golf?

The front-wheel-drive Volkswagen Golf is a four-door, five-seat compact hatchback that’s powered by a 147-horsepower, turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and an eight-speed automatic is available. A performance-oriented GTI version gets a 228-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that pairs with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Competitors include the Hyundai Elantra GT, Toyota Corolla hatchback and Mazda3

What’s New on the 2021 Volkswagen Golf?

There are no significant changes for the Golf, but the Golf GTI adds gloss-black mirror caps and a gloss-black lip spoiler. 


What Features in the 2021 Volkswagen Golf Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

  • 16-inch aluminum wheels
  • Panoramic moonroof
  • Simulated leather upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • 6.5-inch touchscreen multimedia system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
  • Forward collision warning 
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Blind spot warning
  • Reverse automatic braking

Available features include: 

  • Adaptive LED headlights (GTI)
  • Fender premium stereo (GTI)
  • 8-inch touchscreen (GTI)
  • Adaptive suspension (GTI)

Should I Buy the 2021 Volkswagen Golf?

VW stumbled badly with its diesel emissions scandal, but it’s showing a renewed focus on catering to American tastes while retaining some of its German heritage. That said, the Golf line lacks the styling appeal of some competitors. However, driving one and experiencing its refinement and versatility might be enough to sway some compact SUV–minded shoppers.

2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2021 Volkswagen Golf?

The front-wheel-drive Volkswagen Golf is a four-door, five-seat compact hatchback that’s powered by a 147-horsepower, turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and an eight-speed automatic is available. A performance-oriented GTI version gets a 228-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that pairs with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Competitors include the Hyundai Elantra GT, Toyota Corolla hatchback and Mazda3

What’s New on the 2021 Volkswagen Golf?

There are no significant changes for the Golf, but the Golf GTI adds gloss-black mirror caps and a gloss-black lip spoiler. 


What Features in the 2021 Volkswagen Golf Are Most Important?

Standard features include:

  • 16-inch aluminum wheels
  • Panoramic moonroof
  • Simulated leather upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • 6.5-inch touchscreen multimedia system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
  • Forward collision warning 
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Blind spot warning
  • Reverse automatic braking

Available features include: 

  • Adaptive LED headlights (GTI)
  • Fender premium stereo (GTI)
  • 8-inch touchscreen (GTI)
  • Adaptive suspension (GTI)

Should I Buy the 2021 Volkswagen Golf?

VW stumbled badly with its diesel emissions scandal, but it’s showing a renewed focus on catering to American tastes while retaining some of its German heritage. That said, the Golf line lacks the styling appeal of some competitors. However, driving one and experiencing its refinement and versatility might be enough to sway some compact SUV–minded shoppers.

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Overall rating
5 out of 5
Combined side rating front seat
5 out of 5
Combined side rating rear seat
5 out of 5
Frontal barrier crash rating driver
5 out of 5
Frontal barrier crash rating passenger
4 out of 5
Overall frontal barrier crash rating
4 out of 5
Overall side crash rating
5 out of 5
Rollover rating
4 out of 5
Side barrier rating
5 out of 5
Side barrier rating driver
5 out of 5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5 out of 5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5 out of 5
13.4%
Risk of rollover
Side barrier rating driver
5 out of 5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5 out of 5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5 out of 5
13.4%
Risk of rollover

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
7 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Maintenance
2 years / 20,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Within current or previous six (6) model years and have no more than 75,000 miles (BEV and gasoline vehicles)
Basic
See vw.com for warranty terms
Dealer certification
100-plus point inspection

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 2021
    5.0
    Volkswagen Golf GTI
    Starts at
    $28,695
    MPG
    23 City / 30 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
    Compare
  • 2023
    5.0
    Volkswagen Golf GTI
    Starts at
    $30,530
    MPG
    23 City / 32 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
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  • 2014
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    Starts at
    $25,095
    MPG
    21 City / 31 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
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    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
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  • 2022
    5.0
    Volkswagen Golf R
    Starts at
    $44,090
    MPG
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    All-wheel drive
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  • 2019
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    Audi S3
    Starts at
    $44,500
    MPG
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    Seat capacity
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    Drivetrain
    All-wheel drive
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  • 2021
    Volkswagen Golf
    Starts at
    $23,195
    MPG
    29 City / 39 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
    Compare
  • 2020
    4.6
    Audi S4
    Starts at
    $49,900
    MPG
    20 City / 27 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded V-6
    Drivetrain
    All-wheel drive
    Compare
  • 2023
    5.0
    Honda Civic Si
    Starts at
    $28,800
    MPG
    27 City / 37 Hwy
    Seat capacity
    5
    Engine
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Drivetrain
    Front-wheel drive
    Compare
  • Compare more options
    Use our comparison tool to add any vehicle of your choice and see a full list of specifications and features side-by-side.
    Try it now

Consumer reviews

5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 review
Write a review
Comfort
4.0 out of 5
Interior
5.0 out of 5
Performance
5.0 out of 5
Value
5.0 out of 5
Exterior
5.0 out of 5
Reliability
5.0 out of 5
  • One of the most fun practical cars ever.

    I have 11 yr old twins and we're all able to fit comfortably in my GTI. Its fun to drive, sporty, good on gas. What more do you need?
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort
    4.0 out of 5
    Interior
    5.0 out of 5
    Performance
    5.0 out of 5
    Value
    5.0 out of 5
    Exterior
    5.0 out of 5
    Reliability
    5.0 out of 5
    5 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

Latest news from Cars.com

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Volkswagen dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI?

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI is available in 3 trim levels:

  • Autobahn (2 styles)
  • S (2 styles)
  • SE (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI?

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI offers up to 23 MPG in city driving and 30 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI?

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI reliable?

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI has an average reliability rating of 5.0 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI owners.

Is the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI a good Hatchback?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

5.0 / 5
Based on 1 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.0
  • Interior: 5.0
  • Performance: 5.0
  • Value: 5.0
  • Exterior: 5.0
  • Reliability: 5.0

Volkswagen Golf GTI history

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