Introduction

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI S has been turning heads since its debut, garnering praise for its performance, handling, and comfort. Now that we’ve just passed the 20,000-mile mark in our long-term test, it’s time to see if this hot hatch continues to impress and live up to its reputation.

Performance Under the Hood

The 2022 Golf GTI S is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing an impressive 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Over the course of our test period, we found that the engine still performs flawlessly with an overall smooth delivery of power. The acceleration remains brisk, taking only about six seconds for the hatchback to reach 60 mph from a standstill.

Handling Characteristics

One of the key elements that make the GTI stand out from its competitors is its exceptional handling. After driving 20,000 miles, we can report that the GTI S maintains its precise and responsive steering. The car remains agile around corners and stable at high speeds. The adaptive suspension on this model continues to work well across different terrains by adjusting automatically for a comfortable ride quality.

Interior Comfort and Features

The welcoming interior of the GTI S has held up well during our road tests. The supportive sport seats remain comfortable even on long drives, and there are no noticeable signs of wear. All cabin surfaces have proven durable as well. The infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen still functions responsively, and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto continue to provide seamless phone integration.

Fuel Economy

Over our long-term testing period, we observed an average fuel economy of around 28 mpg – an impressive figure considering the performance-oriented nature of this hot hatch. The GTI S managed to strike a balance between spirited driving enjoyment and everyday practicality.

Maintenance and Reliability

In terms of maintenance, our GTI S experienced no major issues during this 20,000-mile test. As expected, we performed regular services like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad inspections. The GTI S has proven itself to be reliable with no unexpected breakdowns or serious component failures.

Conclusion

After spending 20,000 miles with the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI S, we can conclude that it continues to uphold its status as an outstanding performance hatchback. The car remains a pleasure to drive with its potent engine and superb handling capabilities. The comfortable and high-quality interior is a bonus that makes it suitable for daily use as well. We’re pleased to report that the 2022 Golf GTI S has met and exceeded our expectations during this long-term road test.