The Volkswagen GTI is considered by many the “original hot hatch.” The GTI’s reputation was built on a tried-and-true formula for driving fun since its inception in 1976. For nearly 50 years, the VW GTI has proven time and time again that you don’t need a ton of technology, or a ton of horsepower, to have fun while driving.

For the 2022 model year, Volkswagen completely redesigned the GTI from the ground up. The German automaker went back to the drawing board to give the car a modern twist. The GTI now has a new electronic architecture that caters to today’s digital professionals and presents a sleek take on an old formula. Here is what we can expect from the upcoming 2023 model.

How much will the 2023 Volkswagen GTI be?

The 2023 Golf GTI will have four trims: S, SE, Autobahn, and a special edition. The entry-level S starts at $30,180 and includes a six-speed manual transmission. Opt for the S with the seven-speed DSG automatic and expect an $800 increase. This does not include the $1,095 destination fee.

That’s a fair price, considering competitors like the Hyundai Veloster N, Honda Civic Type R, and Subaru WRX all fall within the same price range. However, those that want everything on their GTI can get the Autobahn trim, which will likely be priced around $39,500.

VW also says to be on the lookout for a limited-production 40th Anniversary Edition, which should be seated between the S and SE trims.

When will the 2023 GTI be available?

We expect the 2023 GTI will show up in dealer showrooms by the fourth quarter of this year, if not sooner. Despite the inventory shortage, the 2022 GTI models can still be found nationwide, so buyers will have to wait if they want the latest and greatest GTI.

2023 Volkswagen GTI: Features and engine specs

If the 2023 Volkswagen GTI is a carryover as expected, it will likely have the same engine and features. Every VW GTI is powered by the same turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that produces 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Remember that old tried-and-true formula? Well, this engine is a large part of it.

It also helps that this hot hatch still comes with a six-speed manual transmission, but a 7-speed DSG is available too. As for the standard features, the current GTI S model comes pretty loaded for an entry-level car. Kelley Blue Book notes that the most notable features include LED exterior lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch digital driver information display, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and single-zone auto climate control.

The SE model adds more frivolous features like adaptive front lighting, wireless phone integration, navigation, and a Harmon Kardon sound system with a 10-inch touchscreen.

The Autobahn adds even more to the equation with heated rear seats, tri-zone climate control, a head-up display, and a self-parking feature.

If everything remains largely the same for the 2023 Volkswagen GTI, then it’s safe to say that this hot hatchback will easily provide the driving fun it always has over the last 50 years; of course, now with a much more modern twist.