2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2017 Ford Focus ST

If you desire a stylish and versatile compact hatchback that also delivers high-level performance, then you'll find the 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI to be an excellent choice. The Golf GTI defined the term "hot hatch," with a delightful blend of refinement, style, power and playful performance, and it gets even better for 2017 with a new Sport trim and revamped driver assistance packages. If you'd like to see how the new Golf GTI measures up against the competition, then check out this 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2017 Ford Focus ST comparison.

The 2017 Golf GTI offers an impressive balance of performance and efficiency. It comes with a technologically-advanced EA888 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged and direct-injection engine, putting out an impressive 210 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. With the available Performance Package, the EA888 produces an extra 10 horsepower for a total of 220. While the Focus ST generates more power (252-hp), that only tells half the story, for the Golf GTI is much lighter (2972 lbs. vs 3223 lbs.), resulting in very quick acceleration. Also, the Golf GTI is more efficient, with a fuel economy rating of 25 city/34 hwy mpg, compared to 22 city/31 hwy mpg for the Focus ST.

2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2017 Ford Focus ST
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2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI VS 2017 Ford Focus ST
$24,995 Base MSRP $24,775
210 or 220-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Engine Options 252-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
25 city/34 hwy Fuel Economy 22 city/31 hwy
52.7 cu-ft Max. Cargo Volume 44.8 cu-ft

VW Golf GTI vs Ford Focus ST: Which high-performance hatchback is better?

The Golf GTI offers the advantage for interior space as well. It boasts an interior volume of 93.5 cu-ft, compared to 91 cu-ft for the Focus ST. The advantage is even more pronounced for maximum cargo volume (52.7 cu-ft vs 44.8 cu-ft). Also, the Golf GTI enhances the driver experience with driver controls that are positioned for optimum ergonomics and usability. The seat position, height of the shifter and the spacing between the pedals are fine-tuned for driver comfort. This driver-centric design focus is evident from the center stack, which is now angled towards the driver — a trait frequently seen in premium luxury or performance vehicles.

Another strength of the Golf GTI is for safety, with a wide array of both passive and active safety systems. This includes Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, which applies the brakes when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, thus helping reduce residual kinetic energy and, in turn, the chance of additional damage. The Golf GTI also comes standard with Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System that shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.

Do you live in Southern California? Would you like to experience the high-performance 2017 Golf GTI for yourself? If so, then feel free to get in touch with us at Capistrano Volkswagen!

2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2017 Ford Focus ST Exterior
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2017 Ford Focus ST Interior
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2017 Ford Focus ST Performance
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2017 Ford Focus ST Wheel
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Orange County CA
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