Each year, a panel of self-proclaimed experts denies 800 very wealthy people the right to park their old cars on a lawn. They’re denied entry to the nation’s most exclusive car show, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. For the rest of us, we might feel bad that we’re scrolling instead of strolling the fabled lawn. It’s true that a few of us from Car and Driver will be there to report back on all the action and the cars, because it’s what we do. And again this year, we’ll also be live-blogging the entire weekend here on our site.

But we’re not like the 200 owners who compete with the fanciest, most pristine automobiles in the country. Winning a Pebble ribbon is a social and economic triumph among collectors, whose cars receive an instant jump in their assessed values and whose mailboxes will receive invitations to private events we could never enter.

The rest of us, however, can still enjoy the automotive cornucopia of Car Week from the comfort of home. Follow us here and at @caranddriver on Instagram for the inside scoop, and also try the options below.

Pebble Beach Motoring Classic

Pebble Beach Motoring Classic (August 8-17)

Many of the Pebble cars won’t drive more than a mile from their enclosed trailer to the lawn, but those on the Pebble Beach Motoring Classic run for 1500. Starting August 8, a group of 30 cars will start from Kirkland, Washington, and take nine leisurely days to reach Monterey, California. If you live along the route, you may spot them. Last year’s entry fee was $14,000, and given that the entrants are real owners who likely are busy just keeping these antiques running, you probably won’t see them on Instagram.

This content is imported from YouTube. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (August 21)

Without spending $525 per ticket and lots more on hotels and food, you can stream the Concours d’Elegance starting at 1:15 p.m. Pacific time on August 21. Bookmark the official Pebble Beach livestream and settle in for a few hours. No one will charge you $25 for a cocktail or kick you out of the VIP section. Follow on social media using these tags: #PebbleBeach and #PebbleBeachConcours.

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (August 17–20)

The rarest Le Mans race cars will lap Laguna Seca over four days between August 17 and August 20. These cars are the featured marque for 2022 and are divided into four classes spanning 1923 through 2005. That’s in addition to historic Formula 1 and Trans Am racers. Radwood will also be there on August 19 with about 50 cars. You can stream the races live on YouTube (this is the 2021 stream) or follow on social using these tags: #RolexReunion #MontereyCarWeek #WeatherTechRaceway #Radwood.

Legends of the Autobahn (August 18)

A trio of Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz clubs host their own all-German show on August 18 at the nearby Pacific Grove Golf Links. Follow these tags and accounts: #legendsoftheautobahn @bmwcca @audiclubna @mercedesbenzclubofamerica.

The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering (August 19)

The Quail positions itself as the glitziest of Pebble events, and it’s plenty sparkly, even if the main reason everyone’s there—the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance—is happening two days later. There’s a reason for the confidence: The Quail is impeccable. Follow #thequail on August 19.

Bid on a Classic (August 19–20)

Gooding & Company is the exclusive auction house at Pebble Beach. Last year, buyers blew $107 million in one day (one-fifth of that total went to one car, a 1995 McLaren F1). The bidding isn’t televised, but if you sign up as a registered bidder, you can watch online and bid while you’re boiling macaroni. A stipulation: You’ll need a letter of guarantee from a bank willing to pay any debt you’re unable to finance. That’s not something a neighborhood credit union will underwrite, and Gooding will ask a lot more questions before they accept an application. Also, be prepared: Any bid is final and any winning auction price must add a 12 percent buyer’s premium for cars under $250,000. Add another 10 percent to the balance if it’s over that amount. Then the car ships to your home. Easy!

This content is imported from Instagram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

Concorso Italiano (August 20)

In person, you can eat lasagna on a golf course next to a sea of 1000 Italian cars. This is the 35th year, and no doubt people will be posting about it. Find the show at the Bayonet Golf Course on August 20. Follow @concorsoitaliano and #concorsoitaliano.

Concours d’Lemons California (August 20)

Hagerty has bought out concours and car shows across the country, from Greenwich to Amelia Island, from Radwood to the Concours d’Lemons. We say this because the Lemons guys are not quite the rambling band of misfits they started out as. Hey, cash rules. But the cars at this show are still trash, deliberately so. Follow @concoursdlemons and #concoursdlemons on August 20.

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io

Overview

The Volkswagen Golf GTI pioneered the hot-hatchback genre and now, after decades of existence, it is still the whipped cream atop this sundae of delectable, fun-to-drive compact machines. The GTI was redesigned for the 2022 model year, complete with updated styling and more modern interior features, but it still possesses the fun-to-drive nature that makes it a performance icon. A turbocharged, 2.0-liter, 241-hp four-cylinder is under the hood and powers the front wheels through either a seven-speed automatic or—our choice—a six-speed manual transmission. Its cabin is spacious in both the front and the back and, like every GTI since the nameplate’s inception, there’s plenty of room for cargo under the hatchback door. Whether you are new to speedy boxes-on-wheels or have been a faithful GTI fan since the early days, this latest rendition is as fun-loving as when the original first arrived on these shores. For a GTI turned up to eleven, check out the Golf R (reviewed separately), which boasts 315 horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, and similarly brilliant handling.

What’s New for 2023?

The only thing new for 2023 is the addition of a 40^th Anniversary Edition to the lineup to celebrate 40 years since the Golf GTI made its way to the U.S. The limited production edition joins the S, SE, and Autobahn trims, slotting in above the S. Otherwise, the Golf GTI is unchanged from 2022.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

When deciding which GTI trim to buy, the mid-level SE strikes us as the best value. For an extra $800, the standard six-speed manual can be swapped for a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. We prefer to shift for ourselves, so we’d avoid the surcharge. Compared with the entry-level trim, the SE adds a 480-watt Karman/Hardon audio system, a cool illuminated grille, enhanced infotainment features, and a sunroof. It can also be fitted with leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and memory settings for the driver’s seat, but that means ditching the GTI’s traditional cloth seats and their plaid design. We’d never do that.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2023 Golf GTI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that develops 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. That’s an increase of 13 horses and 15 pound-feet versus its predecessor, but that power is still routed to the front wheels through either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. We tested a GTI with the auto ‘box, which had smart shifts and helped deliver the hatch to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds–0.7 quicker than a last-gen Rabbit edition with the automatic. Not only is the new GTI quicker in a straight line, we credit its revised suspension, electronically controlled limited-slip differential, and brake-based torque vectoring for an uptick in entertainment value on back roads and race tracks. The VW’s expertly tuned chassis deserves more praise than ever, with its sharp responses and not-too-firm, not-too-soft ride quality. The latter was experienced in a top-spec Autobahn model, which comes with adjustable adaptive dampers and a set of 19-inch wheels (18-inchers are standard) wearing summer tires. Nothing puts a damper on spirited driving like a soft brake pedal, but the GTI provides firm feedback and noteworthy stopping power, halting the hatch from 70 mph in just 151 feet.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The most efficient Golf GTI model is the one with the automatic transmission, which earned ratings of 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Opting for the six-speed manual reduces fuel economy in the city by 1 mpg. When we tested a Golf GTI with the automatic on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, it overperformed its EPA estimate and returned 38 mpg. For more information about the Golf GTI’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the Golf GTI boasts a more modern design than before and some traditional callbacks. The dashboard is dominated by two large displays—a 10.3-inch gauge cluster and a 10.0-inch touchscreen—that share a piano-black bezel. The GTI’s three-spoke steering wheel boasts a heavily contoured rim and touch-sensitive controls. Its bolstered front seats have red accents around their outer edges and iconic plaid inserts on the top and bottom cushions—a GTI hallmark through the decades. Unfortunately, unlike the high-quality environs of the previous generation, the new interior is marred by some chintzy finishes and hard plastics. Seeing the road ahead is improved by a lower cowl, but we prefer a simple set of analog gauges over the overly configurable digital setup. The new GTI grows by an inch overall and sees its wheelbase stretch by 0.6 inch, which only furthers its impressive passenger accommodations and cargo space.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The GTI’s infotainment system runs through a standard 10.0-inch touchscreen. Unfortunately, it’s primarily operated via touch-sensitive sliders instead of more intuitive buttons and knobs. Along with a couple of charging ports, the system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These familiar phone apps and menu structures will help offset VW’s otherwise busy and potentially distracting interface.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The GTI comes with a host of standard driver-assistance technology as well as optional upgrades. Notably, VW’s IQ.Drive system is available on all trims and, in addition to traditional features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, includes Emergency Assist, which brings the vehicle to a stop and turns on the hazards in the absence of detected driver input. For more information about the Golf GTI’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

VW includes an above-average limited warranty, but its powertrain protection trails behind most competitors. The company does sweeten the deal with complimentary scheduled maintenance that is similar to what Toyota offers.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance is covered for two years or 20,000 miles

More Features and Specs

Overview

Fears that Volkswagen would annihilate the entire Golf lineup are all but forsaken, with the 2022 Golf GTI set to begin an all-new generation of the sporty hatchback. Although it appears the German automaker will still stop selling regular (read: boring) Golfs in the United States, the GTI and the even zestier R model, which we review separately, have been spared. The result is a more powerful GTI with even more desirable features and the same characteristics that helped the outgoing version earn our love and affection. With more modern styling inside and out as well as the familiar fantastic-to-drive behavior, the reborn Golf GTI attracts new enthusiasts, continues to reward the faithful, and again makes our 10Best and Editors’ Choice lists.

What’s New for 2022?

The 2022 Golf GTI is all new and marks the storied nameplate’s eighth generation. While its styling is evolutionary rather than revolutionary, VW has packed the hatchback with more technology and enhanced performance. Its fresh exterior styling is promoted by sleeker LED headlights and a gaping lower grille with fog lights integrated into the mesh. The more dramatic makeover is inside, where VW combines hallmarks such as plaid upholstery with cutting-edge features. For example, dual digital displays are now standard, and the dashboard has been totally redesigned. The GTI’s turbo four-cylinder now makes 241 horsepower (up 13) and 273 pound-feet of torque (up 15), and it still offers a manual transmission as standard. The Golf GTI is expected to go on sale at the end of this year.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Overview

Volkswagen’s electric car for the masses is the 2023 ID.4 SUV, and it nicely pairs practicality with comfort and adequate driving range to allow drivers to make the switch from internal combustion. We just wish its driving demeanor was more playful. Rear-wheel drive models come with one motor and 201 horsepower; opting for all-wheel drive adds a second motor and ups power output to 295. Maximum range is about 275 miles per charge, but the base Standard trim, while cheaper, pairs its more attractive price tag with a smaller battery and only around 208 miles of range. The more expensive Pro models come standard with DC fast-charging capability, which makes juicing up at public charging stations relatively quick and easy. The Standard trim doesn’t get that feature, so if you’re not able to install a level 2 charger at your home it would be best to avoid this model.

What’s New for 2023?

Volkswagen has moved production of the U.S.-spec ID.4 to its plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee for the 2023 model year. The entry-level Standard model joins the lineup this year with an attractive base price, but it uses a smaller 58-kWh battery pack and comes with an estimated 208-mile driving range. Also new to the ID.4 family is the fanciest Pro S Plus trim, which adds luxury features such as heated rear seats, a three-zone automatic climate control system, unique 20-inch wheels, and a premium stereo system. All models now come standard with the larger 12.0-inch infotainment display that was optional last year and VW has peppered in several minor design enhancements such as gloss black exterior trim, updated wheel designs, and changes to the available paint colors. The center console has been slightly redesigned, interior upholstery options have been refreshed, and Pro S models receive illuminated Volkswagen logos on the front and back.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Although the new Standard model carries the most budget-friendly price tag, we’d opt for the mid-range Pro to help maximize the ID.4’s range and unlock the ability to DC fast charge at public charging terminals. The optional dual-motor, the all-wheel-drive powertrain is worth the upgrade, too, as it boosts horsepower and improves performance.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

With the single rear-mounted motor, the ID.4 makes 201 horsepower, but the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive model pumps out 295. Maximum towing capacity is a stout 2700 pounds. Regenerative braking helps recapture energy when slowing the vehicle, but the familiar one-pedal driving that EV drivers have come to appreciate is largely missing here, even in the ID.4’s most aggressive regenerative mode. Also lacking is the traditional gut-punch acceleration that electric vehicles often provide. The rear-wheel-drive ID.4 isn’t slow by traditional compact-crossover standards, but its 7.6-second run to 60 mph in our testing demonstrates that it’s far more laid back than quicker EV competitors. Going for the more powerful all-wheel-drive model sharpens the ID.4’s accelerative performance, as evidenced by its 5.4-second jump to 60 mph at our test track. The ID.4 handles less sharply than some other EVs, but we appreciate its smooth and refined ride quality and quiet cabin.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The EPA estimates that the ID.4’s optional 77.0-kWh battery pack is capable of holding enough juice to power the SUV up to 275 miles between charges, which puts it in the mix with other electric SUVs such as the Hyundai Kona Electric and the Kia Niro EV. Unfortunately for VW, that’s less than the 330 miles of EPA estimated range for the Tesla Model Y. The battery can be charged at home on 110- or 240-volt connections, of course, and it’s also capable of DC fast-charging on the Pro, Pro S, and Pro S Plus. The cheaper Standard model sports a smaller 58-kWh battery and a shorter 208-mile driving range, but doesn’t offer DC fast charging capability.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA rates the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 Pro S’s fuel economy at 104 MPGe city and 89 MPGe highway; the rear-wheel-drive Pro model is slightly more efficient at 107 MPGe city, 91 MPGe highway. On our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route, the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 delivered 82 MPGe and sailed on for 190 miles. Note: we’ve found from our testing that EPA range numbers can overstate or understate the real-world highway range difference between EVs. Our testing was completed in near-freezing temperatures, which can drastically reduce driving range, so the 190-mile result is more impressive than it sounds. For more information about the ID.4’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

While the ID.4’s interior is less flashy than the ID. Crozz Concept’s cabin, which featured a retractable steering wheel and sliding rear doors, it still offers a contemporary design with high-tech features, ambient lighting, and generous cargo space. The interior design is uncluttered and playful; cloth seats with heat for the front occupants are standard but going with the Pro S model brings faux-leather upholstery along with 12-way power adjustable front seats with a memory function. The ID.4’s cargo area is quite spacious. We managed to fit eight carry-on suitcases behind the ID.4’s rear seat and 26 total with the rear seats folded.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The ID.4 comes standard with a 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment interface is VW’s latest and greatest, but we’ve found it to be fussier than the previous generation software that’s still available in models such as the Jetta sedan and the Tiguan SUV. Navigation is standard and so are wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All ID.4 models also come with a 5.3-inch reconfigurable digital gauge display and voice-recognition capability.