Every generation of VW Golf GTI: which is best of all? | Auto Express

All eight generations of VW Golf GTI, on the same day, on the same roads. Steve Sutcliffe is at the wheel to find out which is best.

Volkswagen released the eighth iteration of Golf GTI earlier this year, with more power, grip and tech than ever before. By modern standards, it's a very well executed hot hatch, but we wanted to trace its lineage by sifting through five decades of Golf GTI, and testing all eight generations. Can the sparkle of the original Mk1 be found in the new model, and which is best of all to drive?

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[Kissmyapex]

I was fully expecting the mk2 to to have the closing feature as the greatest!! I’m hugely disappointed it didn’t get reviewed!!

[ashwho-]

The exterior of the mk8 really has grown on me I think it looks good but the interior just isn’t up to scratch. The mk7.5 was the perfect balance of technology and usability of infotainment.

[adamciampa]

I’m glad that someone has finally said they’d prefer 7.5 over the 8. It’s such a better car in GTi & R guise.

[andrewmarsden]

Amazing how the car has evolved over 43 years. Confused why he blanked the Mk2.

[MattVidPro]

Mk7.5 will probably go down in history as the best gti ever produced

[peterbrunner]

Mk 6 GTI
2010
Just hit 296.000 Km.
Original Turbo/ Engine/ DSG

Fantastic Car.

[DreamCarGarage]

Why didn't you spend any time on my favourite, the Mk2? You had the 'big bumper' version too!

[jimthegun]

I’ve got a 7.5 and I don’t think I will ever love a car as much as this one

[willives]

Mk4 25th Anniversary is a true appreciating classic, brilliant car then and now!!

[SolidWatcher]

I drive my MK6 everyday and I am always excited in driving it tomorrow again

[shakesnbake]

I'm on my second GTI (a Mk7 that I've had for 7 years) - I made myself a promise that I'd stick with GTI's until I could afford a 911! They are the perfect allrounder :)

[ShootingAndReloading]

What happened to the drive of the MKII?

[ZestiSpeedrunning]

I currently own a mk6, and I absolutely love it to death. Such a great car inside and out.

[irish-thinker]

Mk2 was the most beautiful hands down and deserved more time

[toothferrin]

Sleeping on the mk2 as always. Mk2 16v is THE GTI.

[benf]

Glad the Mk5 got some love because I feel like people sleep on it sometimes but it is such a great car to throw around and get you where you need to go everyday!

[DAAWG]

Mk2 has always been my favourite since I was a kid.

[elcanbu]

I can’t believe I came for the mk6 and it is just 15 seconds of cameo! 😩😩😩😩😩😩😩😩

[mrtee]

I've got the Mk7 and wouldn't change it for the world. The best car I've ever driven by far. Nothing comes close. It's perfection!

[elliotmeek]

I've got a Mk5 Edition 30 and couldn't imagine a better car!