EXPERT RATING
8.3

Likes

Still the iconic hot hatch
Fully loaded standard inclusions
Full safety

Dislikes

No manual for enthusiasts
Carryover engine and transmission
More expensive
Tom White

Deputy News Editor

2 min read

The GTI continues to be the Golf's core hot hatch, sitting above the regular range with an MSRP of $53,100.

The GTI's key selling point is its more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder (EA888) engine which produces 180kW/370Nm. It drives the front wheels via a carryover seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The manual does not return for the eighth-generation.

Performance enhancements over the regular Golf range also include tweaked suspension, a front differential lock, dual sports exhaust, and a  unique body kit.

Elsewhere the standard suite of a 10.25-inch digital dash, 10.0-inch multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android auto connectivity, wireless charging, built-in navigation and digital radio, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, bespoke cloth interior trim with signature tartan seats, LED head and taillights, tri-zone climate, as well as keyless entry and push-start ignition.

The full 'IQ Drive' safety suite features from the rest of the range, including freeway speed auto emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, safe exit warning, adaptive cruise control, and emergency assist.

The GTI carries VW's five year and unlimited kilometre warranty promise, with affordable service packs coming in slightly above the regular range at $1400 for three years or $2450 for five years.

Read the full 2021 Volkswagen Golf review

Volkswagen Golf 2021: Gti

Engine Type Turbo 4, 2.0L
Fuel Type Premium Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency 7.0L/100km (combined)
Seating 5
Price From $36,080 - $42,900
Safety Rating

Pricing Guides

$30,308
Based on 73 cars listed for sale in the last 6 months.
LOWEST PRICE
$17,999
HIGHEST PRICE
$49,990
Tom White

Deputy News Editor

Tom’s way into motoring journalism was anything but straightforward despite annoying his parents to no end as a child by identifying makes and models with ease, and acquiring a large collection of Matchbox models. Other interests took over in the intervening years, including tinkering with electronics and computers, and an interest in the past, which eventually culminated in a Bachelor of Arts and Science from the University Of Sydney with a major in Ancient History. During this time, Tom was exposed to all sorts of cars by working as a valet and eventually the Bell Captain at The Star casino in Sydney. He then went on another side-quest, studying law at Macquarie University before applying for a job at CarsGuide. After being hired Tom worked his way up the ranks in a variety of roles and refined his craft, now serving as CarsGuide's Deputy News Editor, with special interests in new technologies and electric vehicles, as well as emerging trends from China. Tom has been recognised by his peers as the EV Journalist of the Year at the 2026 Newspress Australia Awards. He’s personally owned a selection of wheels from a 1981 Holden Gemini to a 2009 Ford Falcon, through to his current 2011 Subaru Forester and many others in between. You can find Tom on LinkedIn and Instagram. Education Bachelor of Arts and Sciences | The University of Sydney | 2010 - 2014 Graduate Certificate of Laws | Macquarie University | 2015 - 2016 Awards 2026 Newspress Australia EV Journalist of the Year Featured Publications CarsGuide | 2016 - present
About Author
Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication. Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.
Pricing Guide
$17,999
Lowest price, based on CarsGuide listings over the last 6 months.
For more information on
2021 Volkswagen Golf
See Pricing & Specs

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