Volkswagen reveals the all-new 2022 models of two of its most iconic cars: the Golf GTI and Golf R.
With all the tech and style updates, the 2022 VW Golf reveal is one of the most exciting yet.
Here is what Volkswagen showed off at the Chicago Auto Show about these two new models.
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2022 VW Golf Reveal: Tech & Driver Experience Features
2022 VW Golf R Interior
Golf GTI & Golf R Engine, Drivetrain, & Power Updates
The Mk7, which hit the market in 2015, already packed a punch. But VW has gone a step further with the Mk8 release. Both the GTI and R have the latest 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine. In the GTI, this engine puts off 241 horsepower. In the R, that figure is up to 315. Both of the models can reach 155 MPH on the track before hitting an intentional electronic speed limit.
Next, the Mk8 cars use a combo of systems for highly controlled handling on both the road and track. These include electronic stability control (ECS), electronic differential lock (XDS), and the optional adaptive damping system (DCC).
Additionally, the GTI has an electronic torque-sensing differential that prevents slipping. The system tightens handling on tight corners and improves grip for more accurate movements on the road.
VW engineers included the latest version of the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system in the 2022 R. 4Motion splits up speed and power between the four wheels for better handling. For comparison, the Mk7 model’s 4Motion system could send half of the engine’s power to the rear axle. In the latest model, that figure is up to 100 percent.
2022 VW Golf Reveal: Tech & Driver Assist Updates
VW included some big tech updates in the Mk8 models. Both cars come with the 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro display. The screen can be customized to show any info the driver wants to see, like the car’s status, driving data, and driver assistance features. Next, there’s the option to project a floating heads-up display onto the windshield.
IQ.DRIVE, VW’s driver assistance suite, also comes standard on the R and GTI. The system uses a mix of radar, cameras, and sensors to power the car’s driver assistance features. These include semi-automated driving through Travel Assist, collision warning and emergency braking with Front Assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and more.
2022 Golf GTI
Golf GTI & Golf R Style Updates
VW made a few key style changes as part of the 2022 VW Golf reveal. Both hatchbacks are slightly longer than the Mk7 models, and the design team revamped the front grille with updated LED headlights, an optional lightbar insert for the grille, and a sporty hood.
Further, the GTI has a few additional touches like X-shaped fog lights and a honeycomb grille. VW changed some R-specific features, too. Now, these models have an aggressive-looking front and rear bumper and a two-piece rear spoiler.
Finally, VW released some color details as part of the 2022 VW Golf reveal. The GTI comes in Oryx White Pearl, Moonstone Gray, Kings Red Metallic, Atlantic Blue Metallic, Reflex Silver Metallic, and Deep Black Pearl. there’s also Pomelo Yellow Metallic, which only applies to the Autobahn GTI model. The Golf R is available in Lapiz Blue Metallic, Pure White, and Deep Black Pearl.
Model Options
The 2022 VW Golf reveal includes several exciting models:
- GTI S, which will start at $29,545 MSRP for the manual transmission and $30,345 for the DSG
- GTI SE, which begins at $34,295 for the manual and $35,095 for the DSG
- The Autobahn, a new top-of-the-line GTI model that’s priced at $37,995 for manual and $38,795 for DSG
- The R, a model that comes fully loaded with all the features for $43,645 MSRP (manual transmission) or $44,445 (DSG)
For your best deal and buying experience be sure to see our friends at Ontario Volkswagen in Southern California’s Inland Empire.
2022 VW Golf Reveal: Final Thoughts
VW fans have loved the Mk lineup from the start. The latest models keep most of the same sporty, strong styling, but they’ve got all the latest tech and driver features, too. The 2022 GTI and R models will undoubtedly be crowd favorites.
