Volkswagen Golf VII GTI Performance 230 CV, road test (Exterior design, interior and boot)

So far we have analysed first-hand the Volkswagen Golf GTI Performance, specifically everything related to the engine, handling and performance of this 230 CV sports car. It is a car that gains a lot with the Performance Pack and, thanks to the front differential, it has very sweet handling on the road.

Now, in the second part of the test, we will analyse the design, both the eye-catching but not exaggerated exterior and the interior of the Golf GTI Performance. As always, we will also look at the boot and the interior finishes.

Exterior design

The VW Golf has been on the market since 1976, and since then it has evolved considerably but always with a certain continuity typical of the German brand. The Golf VII is no exception: it changes its design compared with the Golf VI but without major modifications, with an exterior that has just the right changes to stay up to date while keeping the essence of the Golf.

The Golf GTI adds some exterior changes compared with the standard model, notably the more aggressive and sporty front bumpers, the red line across the front with the GTI badge, and the bi-xenon Plus headlights, which come as standard. The GTI badge also appears on the side line, while at the rear the shapes are simple, with a double exhaust outlet, and the lights feature LED technology as standard.

Specifically, the Performance adds larger brake discs and red brake calipers with the GTI logo. In addition, our unit, as an extra, featured 19-inch sports alloy wheels (Performance Santiago package, 650 euros); the standard GTI comes with 17-inch wheels.

Interior design and finishes of the VW Golf GTI Performance

Inside we find a dashboard of good quality, with soft-touch plastic, good fit and quality finishes on the centre console. From the GTI, the aluminium pedals and the three-spoke sports steering wheel stand out, although we miss the typical tartan upholstery, which, by the way, is much more practical than the leather fitted to our unit (an extra 2,000 euros, which is not perforated and is noticeable in summer).

Apart from the leather, the driving position is comfortable, low, and with excellent visibility. Lateral support is excellent and, in the case of our leather seats, they have electric adjustment. The steering wheel is sporty, with multiple buttons but easy to use once you get a little used to it.

The rear seats are relatively comfortable; the middle one less so. As is typical of a compact, it has a raised central tunnel and is firmer than the side seats. Footroom and headroom are adequate, and it has rear air vents.

Space and boot of the VW Golf GTI Performance

The Golf’s boot has a capacity of 380 litres, a reasonable figure and in line with the segment. For comparison, a Ford Focus has a 363-litre boot. The boot also has a false floor, thanks to the movable tray.

In terms of storage spaces, it has large door pockets (even at the rear), a slightly small central compartment, but a space at the front that is large and very usable.

In the third part of the test we will analyse the complete standard equipment of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, the safety features, our personal assessment of the car and the prices.

Photos | Test team

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackVolkswagen Golf28 versions · from 24,450 €