What It Is: The eighth generation of the archetypal hot hatch, replete with plaid seats, a red line through the grille, and sublimely balanced performance.

Why It Matters: The GTI sets a high bar for every automaker aiming to turn its compact car into something greater, and our lives as enthusiasts are better because of it.

Platform: Volkswagen’s versatile MQB componentry (it underpins everything from the Audi TT to the Atlas three-row crossover) will carry over from today’s GTI. Significant updates to the electrical architecture will accommodate a new infotainment system.

Powertrain: The EA888 turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four found in the current GTI will be nudged from 220 horsepower to more than 230. A six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission will route torque to the front wheels.

Competition: Ford Focus ST, Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Veloster N, Mini Cooper S Hardtop 4-Door, Nissan Sentra NISMO, Subaru WRX.

What Might Go Wrong: The world’s largest automaker has been building GTIs since 1975. Nothing shy of the end of humanity is likely to derail the eighth gen, but we acknowledge that this isn’t quite the guarantee it once was.

Estimated Arrival and Price: We’ll get our first official look at the next GTI in the fall of 2019, with U.S. sales starting in late 2020 at roughly $28,000.

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