New Volkswagen Golf GTI vs Honda Civic Type R: practicality

Is the all-new Volkswagen Golf GTI the best hot hatch you can buy? To find out we're pitting it against our current champion, the Honda Civic Type R...

2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI rear seats

Space and practicality

Front space, rear space, seating flexibility, boot

The GTI and Type R are among the most practical hot hatches on sale today, easily beating the likes of the Hyundai i30N and Renault Megane RS for front space, and providing numerous cubbies for cups, keys and phones; you even get a wireless charging pad as standard in each.

2020 Honda Civic Type R rear seats

True, it’s a shame that seatbelts are provided for only two passengers in the rear of the Type R, and six-footers will find their hair brushes the ceiling if they sit upright in the back. However, it offers significantly more rear leg room than the GTI, allowing you to stretch out.

Both cars’ seatbacks split and fold in a conventional 60/40 arrangement. With them up, the Type R’s boot is far longer and taller than the GTI’s and can swallow seven carry-on suitcases – two more than its rival’s. However, unlike the Type R, the GTI comes with a height-adjustable boot floor and a ski hatch for added flexibility.


Boot space

Volkswagen Golf GTI

2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI boot

Boot 381-1237 litres Suitcases 5


Honda Civic Type R

2020 Honda Civic Type R boot

Boot 420-1209 litres Suitcases 7


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