2017 Golf Gti Specs Manuals Long Clutch

As Mary Poppins would say, its practically perfect in every way.

And the GTIs Sport trim level, which is new for 2017, just may be the ideal version of this ideal car.

It bundles the GTIs most desirable optional content into one handy trim level that starts at 28,815.

For that price, you get the iconic plaid fabric upholstery, bixenon headlights, attractive 18-inch wheels, an upgraded touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and proximity entry with push-button start.

Cheap Speed Equipped with the standard six-speed manual transmission, our test GTI Sport sprinted from zero to 60 mph in a brisk 5.9 seconds, just 0.1 second behind a GTI manual we tested in 2014.

The optional six-speed dual-clutch automatic (1100 extra) makes for even quicker times we tested one at 5.6 seconds and is one of the few automatic transmissions that presents a strong case against opting for the manual.

The DSGs quick shifts are satisfying, although the stick shiftreplete with a dimpled, golf-ball-like shift knobups the GTIs engagement factor.

2017 Golf Gti Specs Manuals Long Clutch

The manuals long clutch travel, which becomes annoying in traffic, is the only downside.

Its smooth, too, and has a pleasant exhaust note thats slightly aggressive without being obnoxious.

Tall gearing means you dont have to shift all that often, as the engines broad torque band makes the car feel responsive even when loping along on the highway in sixth gear.

Our observed average of 27 mpg falls just 1 mpg short of the EPAs combined rating, impressive for a performance-oriented car in our lead-footed, er, hands.

This car makes it easy to get into a rhythm through the corners thanks to light and accurate steering, along with taut suspension tuning that limits body roll.

And yet, the ride is more compliant than youll find in most of the GTIs sport-compact competitorsits firm and composed, like youd expect to find in a luxury sports sedan.

The boxy hatchback silhouette that has been a Golf staple for decades affords a capacious cargo area23 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53 cubes with them folded, or nearly as much as VWs own Tiguan small SUV.

The GTIs rear-seat accommodations are top-notch for this class thanks to well-sculpted seat cushions and a clear view out the side windows.

Not that the driver and front passenger get the short end of the stick.

The front seats are nicely bolstered, and large glass areas make for excellent visibility.

High-quality plastics abound, and assembly quality is unimpeachable.

Volkswagen installed a newer infotainment system in 2016, and its well organized and easy to operate, whether youre using the native interface or an integrated smartphone.

In our eyes, the Golf GTI has no significant flaws, and that kept it on our 10Best Cars list for 2017.

Some of us find its boxy styling too bland, but no one calls it ugly.

You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io.