What is GTI?

In the present day car community, there is almost no way that you have never heard of Volkwagen’s hot hatch, the Golf GTI. The GTI is the intermediate model of the newest Golf trim levels, rising above a base model Golf, and falling short of the Golf R.

This example, a 7th generation Volkswagen Golf GTI, holds a 2.0 liter turbocharged inline four cylinder motor. This motor is paired to either a 6-speed manual gear box, or a 6-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox). This combination produces 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, on a one and a half ton chassis. On the surface, these may seem like very underwhelming power numbers. Which may lead to confusion regarding the hype of the Golf GTI.

Cam: ILCE-7RM4 – Lens: E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS @ 19mm
Cam: ILCE-7RM4 – Lens: E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS @ 18mm

Why a GTI?

Despite the sharp looks, the main desire of the Golf GTI is the powertrain. Known as the MQB platform, which is also found in the third generation Audi A3, is known for its absurd tuning ability and durability with an increase in power.

Companies such as APR, Unitronic, and EQT offer tuning and engine upgrades in stages. These can range from simple bolt-ons, upgraded turbos, and even MPI (multi-port injection). Regardless, many owners will take their cars to the next level with custom tuning, big turbos, and much more.

The Real GTI Namesake

The Volkswagen GTI is the OG hot hatch, and in 2016, it hit the big 4-0! Over the years, this icon has seen more makeovers than a reality TV star, and its legendary “GTI” badge has been borrowed by everyone from Citroën to Peugeot to Suzuki. But no matter how far the GTI name has roamed, it’s always found its way back home to VW, where it belongs—even if it occasionally cheats on the Golf.

Cam: (none) – Lens: (none) @ (none)mm
Cam: ILCE-7RM4 – Lens: E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS @ 21mm

Not Just For Looks

It’s not all looks with this beautiful machine, we also have a few power adders under the hood such as this CTS Turbo intake powder coated black. With a full set of Satge 2 bolt ons.

This Hot Hatch Always Has A Seat At The Table

VW continues to craft a compact hatchback that’s stayed true to its front-wheel drive roots while being a thrilling blend of practicality and pure driving joy. With every model, VW solidifies its place at the head of the hot hatchback table, where performance meets everyday excitement.

Cam: ILCE-7RM4 – Lens: E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS @ 18mm
Cam: ILCE-7RM4 – Lens: E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS @ 23mm

There’s Something Special About The EA888 Engine

This car is equipped with what has become a legendary motor amongst enthusiasts, the EA888. One of the EA888 engine’s biggest draws is how effortlessly it can unleash more power through aftermarket tuning. Enthusiasts have long known that even the earlier versions of this motor respond like a dream to ECU reprogramming, boosting power without needing to swap out the stock turbo.

 

But why stop there? Many gearheads dive into bolt-on upgrades like air intakes, intercoolers, and downpipes, all of which work in concert to keep intake air cool and optimize airflow and fuel delivery. The result? A symphony of mods that can push this engine to the brink of 400 horsepower, turning an already impressive machine into a true performance beast.