2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI v Hyundai i30N Auto go head to head

We pit two of the best hot hatches on sale in Australia against each other to see which one delivers the most bang for your buck. FIND OUT WHO WINS.

Volkswagen’s Golf GTI was the benchmark hot hatch for decades, but a couple of years ago, a brash newcomer knocked it off its perch.

That car was Hyundai’s i30 N, a breakthrough model that dialled up the fun factor for a reasonable price.

Both cars have recently been updated, so we aimed them at a set of corners to see whether the balance of power had shifted.

Hyundai i30 N Premium (left) and Volkswagen Golf GTI are two of the best affordable performance cars on sale. Picture: Thomas Wielecki

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI

The GTI retains the previous model’s 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which sends 180kW and 370Nm through the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Volkswagen claims it will reach 100km/h in 6.4 seconds, which is a full second slower than the i30 N.

The new GTI has the same engine and transmission as before. Picture: Thomas Wielecki

The GTI feels brisk off the mark, making the most of the engine’s generous serving of torque delivered from just 1600rpm.

Acceleration is helped by a slick shifting dual-clutch auto that keeps the engine humming along in its sweet spot.

Light, scalpel-sharp steering combines with excellent body control and grippy tyres to deliver tonnes of fun through the corners.

At the same time it feels composed and predictable, making it suitable for drivers of all experience levels.

Preset driving modes – Eco, Comfort and Sport — alter the vehicle’s suspension firmness, exhaust note, steering weight and throttle response.

The GTI’s cabin is modern feeling, packed with hi-tech features and premium materials. Picture: Thomas Wielecki

In Comfort mode the GTI soaks up bumps and road imperfections impressively for such a focused, sporty car, while Sport mode is firmer and brings a noticeable improvement in control.

Track day fans will appreciate the Individual mode that allows you alter up to 15 different driving parameters.

The GTI lacks the theatre of other hot hatches – the exhaust note is throaty but there’s no popping or crackling on gearshifts.

The circa-$60,000 drive-away price is a shock, representing a price rise of more than $12,000. Offsetting the hike is a cabin that looks more modern and up-market than its predecessor.

The trademark tartan cloth remains, but there is now a 10-inch centre touchscreen and a classy digital display in front of the driver. Ambient lighting with 30 colour choices further elevates the cabin at night.

The GTI is about $4000 more expensive than the dearest i30 N. Picture: Thomas Wielecki

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a wireless charging pad and numerous USB-C charging points.

Our test car was fitted with a $2400 Sound and Style Package that adds a head-up display, 19-inch alloy wheels and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon stereo.

If you want luxury items such as heated and ventilated leather appointed seats and a panoramic sunroof be prepared to pony up an extra $3900.

The cabin itself is comfortable and spacious, with plenty of leg and head room front and back.

HYUNDAI i30 N

The i30 N outguns the GTI in the performance stakes thanks to a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine making 206kW and 392Nm.

The Hyundai is more than 100kg heavier than the GTI, though, so some of its power and torque advantage is spent shifting more weight.

Nevertheless, it still feels stronger than the VW, particularly at higher speeds.

The Hyundai i30 N is more engaging to drive and its exhaust pops and crackles. Picture: Thomas Wielecki.

The eight-speed dual-clutch auto is one of the sweetest shifting on the market, making the most of the engine’s deep power reserves.

It’s noticeably firmer than the GTI over corrugated surfaces and sharp bumps, but compensates with exceptional front-end grip, great balance and confidence-inspiring composure through corners.

The i30 N has lots of gadgets but doesn’t feel as premium inside as the GTI. Picture: Thomas Wielecki

The steering provides better weight and feedback than the GTI. It sounds fantastic, too.

In sport mode, the engine note sounds menacing and gear shifts are accompanied by plenty of fireworks from the exhaust. It’s a car that stimulates all the senses.

Multiple drive modes allow you to adapt the i30 N adapt to different conditions and surfaces. The GTI is more comfortable and refined, but the i30 N is more involving and rewarding. You’ll pay for the extra grunt at the petrol pump, though. It drinks 8.5 litres per 100km compared to the GTI’s 7.0L/100km. i30 N Premium costs about $56,500 on the road.

Both cars are extremely fun to drive and are packed with standard equipment. Picture: Thomas Wielecki

Inside, the i30 N is packed with equipment but the cabin lacks the material quality and attention to detail of the GTI.

A big 10.25-inch central display has wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless device charging pad and multiple USB charging ports. The instrument cluster is a mix of analog dials and a 4.2-inch low-res information display.

Leather and faux suede trimmed sport seats provide ample thigh and side support during spirited driving. Unlike the GTI the seats are also heated and electronically adjustable.

The boot is bigger than the GTI but the back seat doesn’t feel as roomy.

The only option is $595 for select paint colours.

VERDICT

The GTI is a well-rounded, mature performance car, suitable for all drivers and occasions, but the i30 N is more focused, better value and the superior hot hatch.

HYUNDAI i30N PREMIUM DCT VITALS

Price: $56,553 drive-away

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol, 206kW and 392Nm

Warranty/servicing: Five years/unlimited km, $1675 prepaid for five years

Safety: 7 airbags, auto emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keep and blind-spot assist, rear cross-traffic alert, safe exit warning.

Thirst: 8.5L/100km

Spare: Space saver

Cargo: 381 litres

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI VITALS

Price: About $60,000 drive-away

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol, 180kW and 370Nm

Warranty/servicing: Five years/unlimited km, $2450 prepaid for five years

Safety: 8 airbags, auto emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep and blind-spot assist, rear cross-traffic alert and driver fatigue warning

Thirst: 7.0L/100km

Spare: Space saver

Cargo: 374 litres

Originally published as 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI v Hyundai i30N Auto go head to head