2022 VW GTI keeps the good times rollin'

We have no choice but to warn you that this entire review is one big tease.

The pair of 2022 Volkswagen GTIs we tested have German front license plates, a forewarning of sorts, since the eighth-generation GTI is still months away from going on sale in the US.

If you can keep it in your pants, though, the reward will be worth it, because VW's latest hot hatch is such a delight.

Even with some newfound power and features -- and, assumingly, the slightly higher price tag to match -- the GTI's competition remains about the same as usual. 

The Honda Civic Si is due to enter a new generation in the near future and, while it's still available in two body styles (coupe and sedan), it's not as fun to drive as the GTI.

The Hyundai Veloster N gives the VW a pretty solid run for its money, but it's not available as a true five-door and its cabin simply isn't as nice.

The wait will be worth it for the 2022 Volkswagen GTI. 

The parts that were given a dose of radical reinvention don't get in the way of the driving experience, which remains as exhilarating and redeeming as ever.

There's a good reason this is the hot hatch by which most are compared and it doesn't appear that trend will be changing any time soon.

Keep scrolling or clicking to check out even more pictures of the 2022 VW GTI.