2021 VW Golf GTI S: Specs, Features & More
Let's dive into the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI S, a car that perfectly blends practicality with performance. For those of you looking for a vehicle that’s fun to drive yet still sensible for daily use, the GTI S might just be your sweet spot. We'll cover everything from engine specs and interior features to tech highlights and overall driving experience. Get ready to explore what makes this car a standout in its class.
Performance and Engine Specs
The heart of the 2021 VW Golf GTI S is its robust 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. This powerplant delivers an impressive 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of punch for both city driving and highway cruising. The turbocharger ensures that power is readily available across the rev range, meaning you’ll experience minimal lag and strong acceleration whenever you need it. Whether you’re merging onto the freeway or tackling winding back roads, the GTI S offers a responsive and engaging driving experience.
Transmission options include a standard six-speed manual gearbox for those who prefer a more hands-on feel, and an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DSG) for quicker shifts and added convenience. The manual transmission is particularly rewarding, offering precise and satisfying gear changes that enhance the connection between driver and machine. The DSG, on the other hand, provides seamless and rapid shifts, making it an excellent choice for those who want the best of both worlds – sporty performance and effortless drivability.
Furthermore, the GTI S comes equipped with a sport-tuned suspension that strikes a great balance between comfort and handling. The suspension setup includes MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear suspension, which work together to deliver precise steering, minimal body roll, and excellent overall stability. This allows you to confidently tackle corners and enjoy a spirited driving experience without sacrificing ride quality. The GTI S also features progressive variable-ratio steering, which adjusts the steering ratio based on vehicle speed and steering input, providing enhanced responsiveness and control.
In terms of fuel economy, the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI S achieves respectable numbers for a performance-oriented vehicle. With the manual transmission, it’s rated at around 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The DSG transmission offers slightly better fuel economy, with ratings of approximately 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. These figures make the GTI S a practical choice for daily commuting and long road trips alike, without compromising on the fun factor.
Interior Features and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2021 VW Golf GTI S, you’ll find a well-designed cabin that prioritizes both comfort and functionality. The interior is characterized by its high-quality materials, thoughtful layout, and attention to detail. The sport seats are upholstered in a unique plaid fabric, a GTI signature, and offer excellent support and bolstering to keep you firmly in place during spirited driving. The seats are also height-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position.
The GTI S comes standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel that feels great in your hands and features intuitive controls for audio, phone, and cruise control. The steering wheel is also tilt-and-telescoping adjustable, further enhancing driver comfort. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with all essential controls easily accessible. The instrument cluster features clear and concise gauges that provide essential information at a glance.
In terms of space, the GTI S offers ample room for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats provide enough legroom and headroom for adults to sit comfortably, making it a practical choice for families or those who frequently carry passengers. The rear seats also split and fold in a 60/40 configuration, allowing you to expand the cargo area when needed. With the rear seats folded down, the GTI S offers a generous amount of cargo space, making it easy to transport larger items.
Standard interior features on the GTI S include automatic climate control, which allows you to set and maintain your preferred temperature, and power windows and door locks for added convenience. The GTI S also comes with a rearview camera system that provides a clear view of what’s behind you when backing up, enhancing safety and ease of parking. Other notable interior features include ambient lighting, which adds a touch of sophistication to the cabin, and a storage compartment under the front seats for stashing small items.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI S is equipped with a range of advanced technology features designed to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is an 8-inch touchscreen display that offers crisp graphics and intuitive controls. The touchscreen interface is responsive and easy to navigate, allowing you to quickly access various functions such as audio, navigation, and smartphone integration.
Standard smartphone integration features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the infotainment system and access your favorite apps, music, and contacts. You can also use voice commands to control various functions, such as making calls, sending text messages, and playing music, without taking your hands off the wheel. The GTI S also comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audio wirelessly and make hands-free phone calls.
The audio system in the GTI S is a six-speaker setup that delivers clear and balanced sound quality. For audiophiles, an upgraded Fender premium audio system is available as an option, offering enhanced sound reproduction and a more immersive listening experience. The GTI S also features USB ports for connecting and charging your devices, as well as a wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones.
In terms of safety technology, the GTI S comes standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. These include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, which can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate an accident. The GTI S also features blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spots, and rear cross-traffic alert, which warns you of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space. Other notable safety features include lane departure warning, which alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, and adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2021 VW Golf GTI S boasts a sporty and distinctive exterior design that sets it apart from the standard Golf. The GTI S features a unique front grille with a red accent line, a honeycomb air intake, and distinctive LED headlights. The front bumper is also more aggressive, with larger air intakes and a lower splitter that enhances the car’s sporty appearance. The GTI S rides on 18-inch alloy wheels that are exclusive to the model, adding to its visual appeal. The wheels are wrapped in performance tires that provide excellent grip and handling.
Along the sides, the GTI S features black side skirts that accentuate its lower stance and add a touch of sportiness. The side mirrors are also finished in black, further enhancing the car’s aggressive look. At the rear, the GTI S features a roof spoiler that improves aerodynamics and adds a sporty flair. The rear bumper is also unique, with dual exhaust outlets and a black diffuser that enhances the car’s sporty appearance. The GTI S also features LED taillights that are both stylish and functional.
The GTI S is available in a range of vibrant exterior colors, including Tornado Red, Pure White, and Deep Black Pearl. These colors highlight the car’s sporty design and make it stand out on the road. The GTI S also features distinctive GTI badging on the front grille, rear tailgate, and side fenders, further emphasizing its performance credentials. Overall, the exterior design of the GTI S is both sporty and sophisticated, making it a head-turner wherever it goes.
Driving Experience
The driving experience of the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI S is where this car truly shines. The combination of its powerful engine, responsive handling, and well-tuned suspension makes it an absolute joy to drive. Whether you’re navigating city streets or carving through winding roads, the GTI S delivers a level of engagement and excitement that few other cars in its class can match.
The engine’s strong torque delivery ensures that you always have plenty of power on tap, making it easy to accelerate and overtake other vehicles. The precise steering and minimal body roll allow you to confidently tackle corners, while the sport-tuned suspension provides a comfortable and controlled ride. The GTI S also features excellent brakes that offer strong stopping power and a reassuring pedal feel.
One of the standout features of the GTI S is its versatility. It’s equally at home on the daily commute as it is on a weekend road trip. The comfortable seats, refined interior, and ample cargo space make it a practical choice for everyday use, while its sporty handling and powerful engine make it a blast to drive when you want to have some fun. The GTI S is also surprisingly fuel-efficient, making it a great choice for those who want a performance car that won’t break the bank at the gas pump.
The GTI S also benefits from Volkswagen’s attention to detail and build quality. The car feels solid and well-built, with no rattles or squeaks. The controls are all logically placed and easy to use, and the overall driving experience is smooth and refined. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time buyer, the GTI S is sure to impress with its combination of performance, practicality, and value.
Final Thoughts
The 2021 VW Golf GTI S is a fantastic all-around vehicle that offers a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and value. Its powerful engine, sporty handling, and well-equipped interior make it a standout in its class. Whether you’re looking for a fun daily driver or a versatile weekend warrior, the GTI S is definitely worth considering. With its combination of performance, comfort, and technology, the GTI S is a car that you can enjoy every day.
So, if you're in the market for a sporty and practical hatchback, be sure to check out the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI S. You might just find your perfect match!
