The 2023 Golf GTI
A true urban legend
2023 Golf GTI
Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 6.2 seconds*
*Please drive safely and obey all local traffic laws, including speed limits.
Horsepower & Torque: 241HP & 273 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual or 7-Speed DSG®
Fuel Economy: 8.5 L / 100 km* (DSG®) | 8.8 L /100 km *(MT)
Legal: Fuel consumption figures are estimates based on Natural Resources Canada’s approved criteria and testing methods. Refer to the EnerGuide 2023 for Natural Resources Canada’s estimated fuel consumption figures. Actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving conditions, driver habits and the vehicle’s condition, weight carried and additional equipment.
Limited Edition: 40th Anniversary Special Edition
Eight generations in, this hot hatch just keeps redefining fun to drive. If performance is what you’re after, look no further than the newest, most thrilling Golf GTI yet.
Head-Up Display (HUD) helps keep your focus squarely on the road ahead, while advanced driver assistance features like Travel Assist combine Lane Keeping Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control to help maintain your distance and keep you on course.*
Legal: Features are for driver assistance. Drivers must continue to pay full attention to the road and safe driving at all times. Please see owner’s manual for important information and feature limitations.
With a revised interior, Golf GTI looks just as thrilling from the inside. Sport seats feature an embroidered GTI logo, fiery red stitching accents the steering wheel, and a new high-gloss centre console completes the look.
The best of both worlds
Exterior
Signature style
From the signature red line stretching across the front end, to the iconic honeycomb grille with large black air intakes, the look is unmistakably GTI. Slim LED headlights, a strikingly unique bumper and extended rocker panels add even more character to this legendary model. At the rear, the roof spoiler and chrome-plated exhaust pipes help complete the look, while the LED tail light clusters leave a unique signature for those in your rear view.
Wheels
Bespoke spokes
The side view of the GTI is punctuated by striking wheel designs, with standard 17” or available 18” option. However, if you’re looking for an even sportier look, you can upgrade to 19” alloy rims—a first for GTI.
LED lights
Brilliant design
The Golf GTI has standard LED headlights with a slim, sleek profile that extends around to the fenders. The optional Performance LED headlights incorporate Light Assist that automatically turns the high beams on or off when needed.
LED fog lights
See and be seen
Standard LED fog lights help you see more clearly through fog, heavy rain, and snowfall. They also help you stand out for all the right reasons, as part of the new 5 “X” design integrated in the bumper—a look that just screams GTI.
Exterior Ambient Lighting
Step into the light
When you approach your Golf GTI with your key fob, you’ll be welcomed by the available illuminated LED strip just below the iconic red line, and guided to the driver’s seat with light projections from the headlights, tail lights, side mirrors, and door handles.
Sport Exhaust
Double vision
In keeping with GTI tradition, fully-functional dual chrome exhaust outlets in the rear bumper provide a sneak peek of the performance that lies within.
Aerodynamics
Smoother, simpler, sportier
This 8th generation Golf GTI is designed to be the most aerodynamic iteration yet, with optimized exterior mirrors, a bespoke GTI roof spoiler, extensive underbody panels, and more.
Performance
Ready, Set, Golf R
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Engine
Power in perfect balance
The “EA888” 2.0L turbocharged engine in the Golf GTI has an impressive 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, propelling the car to 100 km/h in as little as 6.2 seconds.* With a broad power band, you’ll enjoy instant response everywhere from city streets to winding country roads. The standard “VAQ” electronically-controlled limited slip differential helps puts the driver in full control with sure-footed traction even in challenging conditions.
*Please drive safely and obey all local traffic laws, including speed limits.
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Transmission
Two or three pedals
Make the most of GTI’s broad power band with the standard 6-speed manual transmission or Volkswagen’s lightning-quick 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG®).
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Vehicle Dynamics Manager (VDM)
Thrills at every turn
Think of the new “Vehicle Dynamics Manager” (VDM) as the conductor of GTI’s performance orchestra. With the help of the electronically-controlled limited slip differential and electronic stability control, VDM constantly monitors driver input to optimize vehicle response. The result is a neutral balance with minimal understeer.
In models equipped with the optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) adaptive dampers, VDM can adjust individual wheel damping rates 200 times per second for exceptional lateral agility and stability.
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Summer performance tires
A firm grip
This 8th generation comes with the option to upgrade to a 19-inch wheel—a first for GTI. These 19-inch Adelaide alloy rims come wrapped in high-performance summer tires* for maximum lateral grip and more precise steering response, to help you stay in better contact with your favourite winding road.
*The use of winter tires is mandatory in some provinces. Proper winter or all season tires is recommended for wet, snowy or icy conditions.
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Limited Slip Differential (VAQ)
Feel the differential
The Vorderachsquersperre (or VAQ) is a torque-sensing, electro-hydraulic limited slip differential that’s electronically controlled for ultimate precision. Working in concert with the Golf GTI’s Vehicle Dynamics Manager, VAQ controls torque distribution across the front axle. When accelerating out of a corner or in slippery conditions, power can be precisely shifted left-and-right for improved traction and path control.
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Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC)
The choice is yours
Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) continuously reacts to the road surface and driving conditions to adjust the suspension damping rate for optimal performance. Pre-set profiles include Comfort, Eco, and Sport, while Individual mode offers customization even beyond these parameters. The DCC system can adjust individual wheel damping 200 times per second, helping keep the tires where they belong: in contact with the road.
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Progressive steering
Hands-on handling
A conventional steering system operates on a fixed gear ratio meant to strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort. The progressive steering in the GTI brings more bandwidth, using a variable steering rack and pinion gearing, as well as a more powerful electric assist motor. When parking and maneuvering, steering effort is significantly reduced for easy operation. On winding roads or at higher speeds, the steering can adjust to a more direct ratio for a confidence-inspiring on-centre feel matched by immediate and accurate response.
The latest tech for GTI
Tech at a glance
The available Head-Up Display (HUD) in the GTI puts all the most important information right in front of you to help keep your eyes fixed on the road ahead. When enabled, part of the windshield becomes a projection surface to display speed, navigation instructions, and information from various driver assistance systems.
Sit back and enjoy
New racing-style front bucket seats with integrated headrests feature a red wrap-around accent, GTI embroidered logos, and impressive side bolstering that’s firm enough for the track without sacrificing everyday comfort. Classic GTI plaid cloth seating surfaces, in a new pattern called “Scale Paper”, are standard. For those who appreciate this part of GTI’s heritage, cloth seating can also be selected optionally even in the top Performance trim, where Vienna leather is standard. In a further nod to the GTI lineage, two-tone black and grey surfaces are complemented by classic red accents.
Take the wheel
Choose your path with GTI’s classic sport steering wheel, now with a standard heated feature for colder climates. A novel new touch control interface incorporates haptic feedback, allowing the driver to easily access various navigation, audio, and driver assistance features. Ergonomically-contoured, the wheel features perforated inserts, a flat bottom, a GTI red clasp at the 6 o’clock position, and shift paddles for DSG-equipped models.
High-tech touch
Volkswagen’s 10.25” Digital Cockpit Pro is now standard in every Golf GTI. By default, the sport layout puts a large tachometer front-and-centre. The layout is widely configurable with views focusing on driver assistance, a classic two-dial style, or even a minimalist approach. Important operating information like oil and coolant temperatures is always close at-hand.
When paired with the available 10” Discover Pro navigation system, a navigation view allows the map to be shown in both screens concurrently, creating the “Innovision Cockpit.”
Inner beauty
The interior of the Golf GTI is as precisely designed as the exterior, from the high-quality materials to the classic GTI honeycomb pattern on the dashboard. The adjustable LED ambient lighting and high-res displays in the interior puts light accents in all the right places and even ties into the graphics of the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro. The stainless steel pedals prove that every detail of the cabin was imagined with an eye for design.
High performance audio
The Harman / Kardon® audio system available in the GTI provides the perfect musical backdrop for any drive. Find just the right balance with 8 speakers, a subwoofer, a centre speaker, and a 12-channel amplifier.
Connected convenience
Enjoy the peace of mind and convenience that comes with the Car-Net® app, and it’s suite of over 20 connected features.
Use location services to remember where you last parked, or to find parking before you arrive at your next destination. You can even set boundary and speed alerts to let you know what’s happening when you’re not the one behind the wheel.
Legal: Requires compatible mobile device running iOS 12, Android 8, or higher, with cellular service. Access to the desktop web portal requires a compatible internet browser. Microsoft Internet Explorer is not supported.
IQ DRIVE and Driver Assistance
IQ.DRIVE
An intelligent suite of active safety and driver assistance features* designed to keep you and everyone around you, protected. Features include:
- Travel Assist (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist and Emergency Assist)
- Side Assist (Blind spot monitor with Rear Traffic Alert)
- Front Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring
Driver Assistance
Convenient, cutting-edge tech designed to enhance your driving experience. Featured include:
- Park Distance Control (front and rear)
- Park Assist
- Light Assist
- Dynamic Road Sign Display
Legal: *Features are for driver assistance. Drivers must continue to pay full attention to the road and safe driving at all times. Please see owner’s manual for important information and feature limitations.
Set the mood with 30-colour ambient lighting for the dash panel and doors that’s synchronized with the display.
Stay connected with available wireless charging, and available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.*
Legal: *Please do note drive distracted.
Share the warmth with available heated rear seats and a third Climatronic® zone for rear passengers in the Execline trim.
40 years of GTI
One of 500
We’re honouring four decades and eight generations of iconic GTI design with the exclusive 40th Anniversary Special Edition. Borrowing elements from the European GTI ClubSport 45 and Autobahn Editions, and emblazoned with exclusive “40” decals and inserts both inside and out, this limited edition is a must have for any GTI enthusiast.
19” Scottsdale wheels
Go big
The 40th Anniversary Special Edition GTI sits proudly on exclusive 19-inch “Scottsdale” alloy rims, featuring a signature red pinstripe and high performance summer tires—for a look that’s pure GTI from the ground up.
Black design elements
A limited edition look
The 40th Anniversary Special Edition comes dressed for the occasion, with signature black design details including black mirror housings, black grille inserts, and a black painted roof.
10” Discover Pro Navigation
Brains and brawn
The 40th Anniversary Special Edition also includes the upgraded 10” Discover Pro navigation system. This view allows the map to be shown in both screens concurrently, creating the full “Innovision Cockpit.”
What are the Golf GTI's maintenance costs?
Many Volkswagens have a surprisingly low cost of ownership versus the competition. But don’t just take our word for it: use this convenient third party cost of maintenance tool from Vincentric to see for yourself.
What are the performance specs for Golf GTI?
The MY23 Golf GTI features 241 hp and an impressive 273 lb-ft of torque.
How is Golf GTI’s fuel economy?
Fuel economy with the 6-speed manual transmission is 8.8 l / 100 km, while the 7-speed DSG® comes in at 8.5 l/100 km.*
*Fuel consumption figures are estimates based on Natural Resources Canada’s approved criteria and testing methods. Refer to the EnerGuide 2023 for Natural Resources Canada’s estimated fuel consumption figures. Actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving conditions, driver habits and the vehicle’s condition, weight carried and additional equipment.
How much cargo space does Golf GTI have?
Don’t let Golf's small size fool you: It has 564 litres of cargo space, which increases to 977 with the rear seats folded. That’s easily enough space for your gear, groceries, suitcases and whatever else you might need
Does VW Golf have enough room for a family?
The VW Golf has been in production for over 45 years and has been the ideal family car for those in a variety of different life stages. Should your needs ever change, an SUV like a Tiguan or an Atlas is a great alternative.
Does Golf GTI require premium fuel?
The GTI uses regular fuel.
Can I get cloth plaid seats on the Performance trim?
Absolutely. GTI fans have told us that they love the iconic plaid cloth seats so you have the Performance trim with the leather delete package.
Do all Golf GTI trims have a sunroof?
We understand that not everyone wants a sunroof on their Golf GTI, but it’s now available with a panoramic power sunroof. This is an option, so you can have your GTI with or without. The choice is entirely yours.