I had a spectacular experience driving the 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn around the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
My journey took me along I-495, up I-95 to Baltimore, and westward on I-695 to I-70, through the scenic Appalachian Hills of Western Maryland, all the way to I-81 in northeastern West Virginia.
The GTI’s performance was exceptional, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that offered both impressive handling and striking style. The engine is paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission with Tiptronic, featuring a dual sequential clutch that enhances the driving experience.
The 2024 GTI also impressed me with its technology. The Harman Kardon sound system, paired with Apple CarPlay, allowed me to enjoy the music I created with the music department at Carnegie Mellon. The sound quality was rich and immersive, adding to the overall driving enjoyment.
In terms of performance, the GTI delivers 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, providing exceptional handling and technology integration. It’s also fuel-efficient, achieving an EPA-rated 33 miles per gallon on the highway.
The base price of the Volkswagen Golf GTI is $40,305, and the model I tested, with additional features, came to $41,850. For more information, www.VW.com