Experienced by Adrian McQueen
Photography by Adrenaline Lifestyles
This week we were able to get behind the wheel of the 2024 VW Golf GTI Autobahn. I host a lot of car shows and this one has a cult following. I had a great week getting around town in this German beast. The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car/small family car (C-segment) produced by Volkswagen since 1974, marketed worldwide across eight generations, in various body configurations and under various monikers, such as the Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States and Canada (Mk1 and Mk5).
The Golf is already in the automotive aftermarket world, especially the GTI. The model that we tested came in a stunning Kings Red Metallic hue with a Titan Black leather interior. It has LED headlights, taillights, fog lights and daytime running lights. The sporty features of the Golf are made prominent with the GTI grille, bumpers, side skirts and trim. The chrome tipped dual exhaust is a nice added touch.
The Golf GTI Autobahn is an all-out performance vehicle with a 2.0-liter TSI 16 valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine, rated for 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The Golf is peppy off the line and handles well in corners. The Autobahn model that we tested has adjustable adaptive dampers paired with 19-inch alloy wheels paired with summer tires.
The technology within the Golf ranks as one if it’s highlights. The Harmon Kardon premium audio system with the subwoofer astounded me. The sound was so crisp with deep hitting bass moved my body like only a Harmon Kardon system could. Volkswagen equips the Golf with a 10-inch full-color touchscreen in the center dash as well as a 10.25” configurable digital instrument display. I was able to use the touchscreen to operate the HD Radio, SiriusXM, navigation, my phone and numerous voice control options.
The 2024 VW Golf GTI Autobahn sits in a highly competitive class, giving consumers a wide array of options to choose from such as the Toyota 86, MINI Cooper Convertible, Honda Civic Type R, Mazda Miata MX-5, and the Toyota Supra. This is also known as the “fun size” group of vehicles.
The 2024 VW Golf GTI Autobahn model tested was priced competitively, coming in at $41,850.00 after all the options, delivery and fees. Gas mileage is very important and the Golf is coming in at an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg combined.
The Golf GTI Autobahn comes with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty that includes powertrain components and a seven-year/100,000-mile limited warranty against corrosion perforation. There is also Scheduled Carefree Maintenance, which includes the first two years of manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals (two years or 20,000 miles, whichever occurs first). For added care, Volkswagen’s Roadside Assistance services including Towing, Collision towing, Flat tire service, Lock-out service, Fuel delivery service, Out-of-Charge service (EV), Battery jump start and Trip interruption benefits. Volkswagen offers complimentary Car-Net Safe & Secure connected vehicle emergency services for 5 years.
All in all, this is fun, fast and reliable vehicle. Enjoy the photo gallery.
