Volkswagen Golf GTI Long-Term Review How It Stole My Heart
From city streets to highways, discover the thrills, quirks, and compromises of living with the Volkswagen Golf GTI over the long term.
The first time I drove the Golf GTI on NATRAX’s tight, technical circuit, I was honestly blown away. Tight corners, quick transitions. It felt alive. And yeah, even during our road test in Mumbai, that thrill didn’t go away. Sure, some compromises exist, but the GTI’s charm? Still there Full stop.
So when the chance came to live with it for a few months, I wasn’t saying no. Nope. By we I mean just me because let’s be honest, who else?
What exactly is the GTI?
It’s a hatchback. Roughly Creta-sized. Priced like a Fortuner. Crazy? Maybe. But here’s the thing if you care about driving more than showing off, GTI speaks to you. Subtle. Not loud. Sleeper vibes. Serious where it counts.
Under the bonnet? 2-litre turbocharged engine. On paper, sounds ordinary. But you then recognize 260bhp, beneath 1.5 tonnes, stable chassis. And yes, 0-100kmph in beneath 6 seconds. Suddenly, it doesn’t experience overpriced anymore. Actually, feels adore it earns every rupee.
My plan with the GTI
Simple. Daily driver Office commute, press events, highway runs when mood strikes. By the end, I’ll know exactly the highs and lows. What you gain. What you compromise. And believe me, there’s always a trade-off.
First impressions
Looks. Just wow. Big wheels, low-profile tyres, low-slung stance. My Carens looks like a tank next to it. And the colour? Perfect. I catch myself staring at it every morning. Guilty. But here’s the flip doors. No request sensor. My bag, coffee cup, keys chaos every morning. I dig around, curse a bit. Small thing, but nagging.
One time, I spilled coffee while trying to unlock. Classic me. GTI didn’t care. I did. Lesson learnt: it’s sporty, not forgiving.
What’s next?
Challenges ahead, thrills too. That’s the thing about GTI it keeps you on your toes. More time behind the wheel, more stories. Some fun, some ugh moments. But straight up, let the good times roll.
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