Driving all three manual-equipped 2022 VW models | Golf GTI, Golf R and Jetta GLI

2022 Golf GTI

The big news about the all-new Golf GTI? It comes with a six-speed manual–but you already know that because you read the introduction of this piece.

Volkswagen will also offer a seven-speed DSG, with both transmissions hooked up to an updated EA888, in this case a 2.0-liter turbo variant making 241 horsepower and 273lb.-ft. of torque. 

This engine feels so flexible that it really doesn’t need the six speeds. Torque is available everywhere. Like, everywhere. Lag? Not an issue. 

[Project Car: 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit GTI]

Shifter feel is typical for a modern front-drive performance car. It’s not an NA Miata, but action is still solid and predictable. We just have to admit that the days of solid-mounted shifters and lightweight flywheels ended long ago. So, in today’s context, it’s right there. 

Brake specs come from the previous Golf R: 13.4-inch front and 12.2-inch rear discs. A torque-sensing limited-slip differential comes standard.

The chassis feels solid and stiff, but remember that it’s still a front-drive chassis. Take your reference point–really any recent GTI or Civic Si–and add more torque. So basically it’s an evolution of the much-loved hot compact. 

The latest Golf GTI starts at $29,545 when fitted with the manual box. If you go with the DSG, MSRP starts at $30,345. No matter the trim level, the interior feels solid and upmarket. 

The one thing that has drawn complaints, though: the lack of a knob for the radio volume. Is it a deal-breaker? Based on comments overheard at the introduction, you’d think it is. (Your mileage may vary, of course.)

2022 Golf R

The all-wheel-drive Golf R continues with the latest Golf chassis, with output from the 2.0-liter EA888 pushed to 315 horsepower and nearly 300 lb.-ft. of torque. 

Then add in rear-torque vectoring. What’s that? Here’s an explanation from the VW press materials: “Using a rear differential with two multi-plate clutches, it can distribute up to 100% of the rear torque to an individual rear wheel to maximize cornering grip.” 

Brakes have been beefed up, too, with the latest Golf R getting 14.1-inch front and 12.2-inch rear discs. Aluminum front hats come standard. So does adaptive damping.

The driving experience is easy to sum up: Take the Golf GTI and crank up the knobs a bit while tossing in a bit of Subaru STI. The Golf R pulls even harder than the GTI–it could probably make do with an old-school four speed, really–while the all-wheel drive brings the rear end into play. Bring around the rear end with the throttle? Okay, you can do that. (While our initial drive took place on public streets, hopefully we’ll track test one soon.)

While the car offers breathtaking performance, one point gives us pause: The Golf R, available in just a single trim level, retails for $43,645. Depending on your math skills, that’s a nearly 50% premium over the base GTI. Is that extra boost–and grip–worth the extra price?

2022 Jetta GLI

Volkswagen has freshened its Jetta for 2022, with the performance-tuned GLI variant making 228 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque from its 2.0-liter EA888.

That might sound like weak sauce compared to the rest, but here’s the take-home message: You can play with this one without getting into the danger zone. It’s the sleeper of the line, the one you can slide around without fear of going to traffic jail. 

And then there’s the terrific intake honk. If you came of age in the ’90s–back when all the cool kids ran Iceman cold-air intakes–then the sound will transport you to a time when 200 horsepower in a front-driver was really pushing it. 

More old-school goodness: closer-to-traditional radio controls, including actual knobs. The seats feature plenty of bolstering without getting crazy, too. The manual box felt like it belonged there–good ratios and positive shifter action. 

The car’s price, though, probably won’t steal customers from the Golf GTI. The Jetta GLI starts at $30,995 when fitted with the six-speed manual. Go with the seven-speed DSG, though, and the price bumps up to $31,795. But the Jetta still has a place, as it’s one of today’s few smaller sedans that can be had with a real manual box.