Sweet drives are made like this

The Volkswagen Golf is not a new car. It has been made in Germany since 1974 and marketed across seven generations, has been the recipient of several awards globally, such as the 2013 European Car of the Year for the second time (the first award was in 1992), 2013 World Car of the Year, 2013-2014 Car of the Year Japan (the first imported car to win the award), among others.

The GTI line was first introduced in 1976 on the 1st generation Golf.

Now on its 7th generation, the GTI is the ultimate sportsman within the VW sports car family. It combines technological leadership and uncompromised performance, making it a sustainable sports car. The GTI is the sports car with true “style and performance.”

So it was with heady excitement that I grabbed the chance to test drive this iconic car. After all, I grew up looking at pictures of the VW Golf in my younger years. Blame that on my late dad who would always show me photos of cars that he liked. And because I inherited my taste for cars from him, the VW Golf simply drove me crazy.

AN ICON UP CLOSE

There had been many times in my life when I finally saw or met an icon I had dreamed of through the years — and was sorely disappointed. But I must say that when I got to see the VW Golf GTI up close, it was just admiration and then love at first sight.

For starters, I must say I liked everything that is sporty about the Golf GTI. The GTI-specific body kit — a rear spoiler, unique lower front and rear fascias, and horizontal strakes on the lower front corners — is tasteful. The standard 18-inch wheels are probably the flashiest bits, and they aren’t really all that flashy. But the wheels add to the macho-ness of the Golf GTI.

I am a firm believer that even if a car may look impressive from the outside, it is what’s under the hood that matters most when you’re on the road.

The Golf GTI is equipped with a 2.0 turbo-charged stratified injection engine and a 6-speed dual shift gear transmission and sports suspension.

Take note of some of the safety features of the Golf GTI: Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) with XDS plus technology, engine drag torque control (MSR), electronic parking brake with auto hold, rear assist rear view camera with 8-channel park distance control, driver alert system, airbags (driver, passenger, driver knee, front side and curtain).

I know this may sound too “car-tech,” but what you’ll see under the hood of the Golf GTI is bound to amaze you. This baby sure drove like a race car though the traffic-ridden streets of Metro Manila and it handled even better when I took it for a spin down NLEX.

As I drove the Golf GTI like a breeze, I had to control my smile — driving alone and widely smiling, I could be mistaken for a mad woman behind the wheel. But the smile stayed put on my lips as this drive was one of the most fun I’ve ever had.

The VW Golf GTI gave me a feel of control on the road — inside the ever-reliable German body with its uber solid build. The VW Beetle, Touareg GTI and now, the Golf GTI are all equipped with bodies that make one feel safe inside.

I made it to the end of NLEX with time to spare for a quick snack. I parked the Golf GTI under the shade of a tree and headed for the nearest panaderia to get my fix of pandesal and a drink.

LOOK OUTSIDE

It is always a treat to be able to get out of town mid week and take a break with nothing but lush greenery to fill my eyes.  I sat on the little stool I had brought along with me and I took a good look at the outside of this beauty.

Let me give you a rundown of just what the Golf GTI looks like from the outside. It is equipped with 18-inch Austin alloy wheels, bumpers, grille, tail lamps, spoiler, and, dual tailpipes; Bi-Xenon headlamps with daytime running lights (DRL); and dynamic headlamp control.

There is no way that the Golf GTI will not merit a second look.  I opened the door of the GTI and gave the interiors one more look.  When one is enamored with a car — just like meeting the man of your dreams — I want to keep looking and looking and looking.

Inside, the GTI is loaded with premium sport seats with “Clark” material, GTI steering wheel with paddle shifts; GTI shift knob, stainless steel pedals, scuff plates, and trim; keyless-go entry/exit with push start; interior ambient lighting; and, a climatronic two-zone air-conditioning system.

I recall reading the press release for this car and I quote here what was said about the GTI because it couldn’t be more true:

 “The Golf GTI is, indeed, the sports car with true ‘style and performance’ because it is the GTI. It is the perfect car for performance seekers looking for fun and excitement,” said John Philip Orbeta, president and chief executive officer of VW Philippines.

Yes, the GTI is one fun and exciting car. I have to add that these words came to mind when I looked at the GTI and more so when I drove it. 

Break time over and it was getting late so I headed back to Manila. I dusted the pandesal crumbs off my pants and hopped into the VW Golf GTI. Again, I smiled as I heard the engine roar and hit the road.

There are days I wish would end sooner than soon. But on this lovely Wednesday, I wish the day would never end — and that this drive home would last forever. Because behind the wheel of the VW Golf GTI and with the Big Guy up there, everything seemed right and the day, just perfect!