Congratulations on your new Volkswagen Golf GTI! You've just bought a legend, a car that perfectly blends daily usability with thrilling performance. You already know about the powerful turbocharged engine, the iconic red accents, and the superb handling. But the latest generation GTI (MK8) is packed with technology, and some of its best features aren't immediately obvious.

To help you get the most out of your new hot hatch, here are 5 hidden features and tricks you should definitely know about.

1. The Secret Shortcut Menu (A Real Game-Changer)

The minimalist dashboard of the new GTI looks clean, but you might miss having physical buttons for key functions like traction control or climate sync. The secret? A hidden pull-down menu.

• What it is: A customizable shortcut bar that gives you quick access to your most-used functions.
• How to find it: Simply place your finger at the very top of the central infotainment screen and swipe down, just like on a smartphone. A menu will appear with shortcuts to functions like ESC Sport, interior lighting, and climate settings. You can even edit this menu to put your favorite shortcuts right at your fingertips.

2. Unlock the Full Potential of Your Ambient Lighting

Your GTI comes with ambient lighting, but you might not realize just how customizable it is. It's more than just a single colour; it's a true party trick.

• What it is: A 30-colour ambient lighting system with dual-zone control and pre-set "moods."
• How to find it: Go to the Vehicle menu on your screen, then select Interior Settings and Ambient Lighting. Here, you can not only choose from 30 individual colours but also select a separate colour for the upper and lower sections of the cabin (dash and doors). You can also explore pre-configured moods like "Infinity" or "Eternity" for a professionally designed feel.

3. Customize the "GTI View" on Your Digital Cockpit

The Digital Cockpit Pro is amazing, but the special "GTI View" with the central tachometer is the one you'll want to use most. Did you know you can change what information it shows?

• What it is: The ability to customize the data fields on either side of the central rev counter in the GTI-specific display mode.
• How to find it: First, use the "View" button on your steering wheel to cycle to the GTI display. Then, use the up/down arrow keys on the right side of the steering wheel. This will allow you to cycle through different data options for the left and right pods, such as boost pressure, G-force meter, power output (in kW), and torque.

4. Use "Smart Climate" to Talk to Your Car

Fiddling with fan speed and temperature settings while driving can be distracting. Volkswagen has a cleverer solution built into the climate menu.

• What it is: An intelligent climate control menu that responds to plain language requests.
• How to find it: Press the "Clima" button below the main screen to open the climate menu. Instead of adjusting the controls manually, look for the "Smart Climate" option. Here, you’ll find simple commands like "Warm my feet," "Clear my view," or "Fresh air." The car will automatically adjust the temperature, fan speed, and vents to achieve your desired outcome.

5. Quickly Access ESC Sport for More Fun

Sometimes, you want to loosen the electronic safety nets for a more dynamic driving experience on a track or a safe, empty road. In older cars, this was a simple button press, but now it’s hidden in a menu—unless you use our first tip!

• What it is: The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) has three modes: on, Sport, and fully off. ESC Sport allows for more wheel slip and a more playful character before the system intervenes.
• How to find it: The "official" way is to go to Vehicle > Brakes > ESC System. However, the fastest way is to use the pull-down shortcut menu (Tip #1). By default, the "ESC Sport" button is right there, allowing you to activate it with just two taps on the screen.

Go ahead and explore these features in your new car. They are small details that make living with the brilliant Golf GTI even more special.