Talking Cars 337: Driving the 2022 Volkswagen GTI

We also weigh in on whether paddle shifters enhance or harm the driving experience

By Mike Quincy

December 13, 2021

Main theme: In this show, we give our first impressions of the 2022 Volkswagen GTI. This hot hatchback has been a staff favorite for years, but does the redesigned model live up to its legacy? The sporty car segment has taken a hefty popularity hit over the years due to the public’s desire for SUVs and pickup trucks. We discuss whether the new GTI has the stuff to lure buyers back. And did VW make one crucial mistake with this new design?

Audience question:

Are paddle shifters potential safety hazards?

Talking Cars 337 — "Talking Cars" panelists Jake Fisher, Mike Quincy, and Alex Knizek.

As with other “Talking Cars” episodes, this one is available free through Apple Podcasts. (Subscribe to the audio or video.) You’ll also find the audio on Spotify (log-in required) and video on YouTube.

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Road Test Results, episode 336
Driving the 2021 Honda Ridgeline, episode 335
Driving the 2022 Infiniti QX60, episode 334
Chevrolet Corvette Road Test Results, episode 333
Driving the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, episode 332

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Mike Quincy

Mike Quincy is a writer, editor, podcaster, and tester with the Consumer Reports autos team. He has been with CR since 1993, purchasing more than 160 cars for the test program. Previously, Mike wrote for Automobile Magazine. When he’s not working, Mike can be found training for a long-distance bicycle ride, honing a wide variety of baked goods, or studying the world of mixology in search of the perfect martini.