2023 VW Golf GTI: Can It Outperform?

author: FutureCar Staff    

The 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI offers a range of features that appeal to driving enthusiasts, such as a manual transmission, ample torque, and eye-catching design elements. It also includes features that are favored by dog owners, such as a high roofline, easy access, and a user-friendly center console.

Our team of Australian Shepherds, Bramble, Indi, and Silas, had the opportunity to test this car as part of our ongoing series, Will It Dog? We evaluate the car's suitability for canine owners and highlight specific aspects that either benefit or hinder its performance as a dog taxi. While our dogs enjoyed their time in the GTI, I personally found the driving experience to be slightly underwhelming. However, we will delve deeper into this in our review.

The Golf GTI's design and features make it a practical choice for dog owners. The car's upright hatchback design provides excellent visibility, and the steep rear hatch contributes to ample cargo space. While the cargo bay behind the rear seats may not be particularly deep, it offers enough height to accommodate large items like a dog kennel.

The interior of the Golf GTI is well-designed, with comfortable cloth seats and distinctive plaid inserts that add personality to the cockpit. The digital display and driver interface enhance the modern feel of the car, although the all-black plastic surfaces on the doors and dashboard are somewhat disappointing. It is worth noting that the low center console may be easily accessible to dogs if they are not properly restrained.

Getting in and out of the Golf GTI is effortless for both humans and animals, thanks to its user-friendly design. The car's shape and height make it accessible for dogs of various sizes and breeds. When it comes to driving with a dog, the GTI provides a comfortable experience, with enough space for them to enjoy the ride and even stick their snouts out of the rear windows.

While the Golf GTI offers a thrilling performance on paper, I found the driving experience to be somewhat lacking in emotional connection. The steering feels slightly numb, and the gear shifter has long and rubbery throws. However, the GTI's refined nature and comfortable driving posture make it suitable for long journeys and daily commutes.

When it comes to carrying multiple dogs, the Golf GTI's flat rear bench can be advantageous. However, it may result in dogs sliding around during spirited driving. The car's cargo capacity may be limited when accommodating kennels, as the area behind the rear seats is not deep enough. It is possible to place a kennel on top of the rear seats, but this reduces passenger capacity.

In conclusion, the Volkswagen Golf GTI is a practical and appealing car for dog owners who also value driving enjoyment. While it may not have elicited a strong emotional response from me, it offers a comfortable and user-friendly experience. However, it is important to consider the car's limited cargo space and plan accordingly when traveling with dogs.

FutureCar Staff