Volkswagen Golf GTI Named Good Housekeeping Magazine’s 2017 Best New Compact Car

Good Housekeeping Institute engineers praised the sporty compact for its exceptional handling, value and practicality

HERNDON, VA - January 20, 2017: Volkswagen of America, Inc. is pleased to announce that the Volkswagen Golf GTI has earned Good Housekeeping magazine’s 2017 Best New Car Award in the compact vehicle category. Teaming up with other magazine writers, engineers from the Good Housekeeping Institute (GHI) Lab rated its top picks on value, safety, handling, interior design comfort and onboard technology after driving the vehicles more than 1,200 miles on test tracks and open roads.

“We are extremely proud that Good Housekeeping magazine has honored the Golf GTI with the 2017 Best New Car Award,” said Hendrik Muth, Senior Vice President, Product Marketing & Strategy, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “The Golf GTI packs incredible value. Its combination of power, design, space, connectivity, and fun-to-drive nature represents the best of what Volkswagen has to offer.”

“GH’s engineers have never tested a more practical compact,” said Good Housekeeping. “The Golf won on combined miles per gallon and also got top marks for visibility, a sleek but roomy interior and a tight suspension that helped it hug the road, even going over bumps.”

The Golf GTI is powered by a 2.0-liter TSI® turbocharged and direct-injection engine that produces 210 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque (achieved with premium fuel). When equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, the Golf GTI achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. When equipped with the optional six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission, the EPA estimated fuel economy is 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

The Good Housekeeping Institute worked with other magazine writers to screen more than 100 new vehicles, narrowing it down to the top 25 for further scrutiny. The Golf GTI is among seven winners. In addition to the compact category, others included luxury compact, sedan, luxury sedan, crossover SUV, electric, and hybrid.