Volkswagen says that GTI models now make 262 horsepower, but notes that this applies to European models. We aren't yet sure if the GTIs that come to the U.S. are going to get the 21-hp bump over the current car's 241 ponies. It would be a nice change, however, since American buyers have never had the option of the more potent Clubsport versions of the GTI European buyers have been able to enjoy since 2016.
After much admonition, VW has relented and put real buttons back onto the GTI's steering wheel. We've spent years clamoring for physical controls, and VW has finally granted our wish and we hope this might finally put an end to that longstanding saga. But the returning buttons require a sacrifice, and that's the option for a manual transmission. The face-lifted GTI will be offered exclusively with a dual-clutch DSG automatic. Power is sent to the front wheels in classic GTI fashion, but the option to row your own gears will likely be sorely missed by hot-hatch enthusiasts.