2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs. 2018 Audi A4

Shopping for a vehicle that’s both sporty and stylish? You may have considered the 2018 Audi A4 ($36,000 starting MSRP) with its turbo engine and luxurious cabin. When you compare it to the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI ($26,415 starting MSRP), though, it loses much of its appeal. The Volkswagen GTI specs are not only more impressive, but its cabin is more spacious and filled with many of the same features—for less. Compare the new Golf GTI vs. Audi A4 below!

Audi A4 vs. Golf GTI: Performance Specs

Both the 2018 Audi A4 and 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI come standard with a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The Golf GTI, however, coaxes more power from its engine than the Audi A4. At the base level, it generates 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the Audi A4 manages just 190 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. Even so, the Golf GTI is comparably fuel-efficient, earning an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway rating—not much less than the Audi A4’s 27 mpg city/37 mpg highway rating.

Audi A4 vs. Golf GTI: Handling

Responsive handling can be expected from any Audi or Volkswagen vehicle. However, at the base level, the Audi A4 isn’t quite as capable of delivering sporty feedback as the Golf GTI; you’ll need to purchase upgrades to help it reach its full potential. The Golf GTI is the opposite, and comes standard with the following performance parts and systems:

• Sport Suspension: Thanks to sport-tuned suspension, the Golf GTI can maintain solid road-grip, even during tight turns.
• XDS+ Cross Differential System: This system serves as an electronic substitute for a mechanical limited-slip differential, and uses targeted braking to reduce understeer for smoother cornering.

 

Audi A4 vs. Golf GTI: Interior Dimensions

The Audi A4 and Golf GTI interior offer many of the comforts Vienna drivers want. Shared features include cruise control, selectable driving modes, a driver information display, a rearview camera, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. One major difference between the two is space. As a hatch, the Golf GTI has the advantage; it offers a maximum cargo volume of 53.7 cubic feet, while the Audi A4 offers just 13 cubic feet in the trunk.

Take the New Golf GTI for a Spin Around Tysons Corner!

Comparing the Volkswagen Golf GTI vs. Audi A4, the former stands out as the more powerful and spacious vehicle, as well as less expensive. Compare the Golf GTI to other performance cars, such as the Dodge Charger. When you’re ready, contact us at Stohlman Volkswagen to schedule a test drive near Fairfax and Alexandria.