Overview & Reviews

The Volkswagen GTI is one of the best-known budget performance cars sold in America. For more than 30 years, Volkswagen has been taking its entry-level, economy car-based hatchback model and turning it into a GTI by adding a more powerful engine and brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, and special interior and exterior trim pieces. The result is a practical car that's also fun to drive and desirable.

The original Volkswagen Rabbit GTI stormed onto American shores for 1983 and has been frequently credited for creating the niche-oriented "hot hatch" market segment. Though many of the original GTI's specs don't seem particularly great by modern standards (its 1.8-liter engine made just 90 horsepower, for instance), it was a lightweight and agile revelation for many consumers used to bulky and underperforming American sport coupes.

Since then, there have been six more generations of Golf- or Rabbit-based VW GTIs, and some have been more highly regarded than others. The latest couple of generations have been considered a return to form for the nameplate. Shoppers interested in a used GTI will likely want to do some research and test-drives in order to determine which version is best suited for them.

Current Volkswagen GTI
Redesigned for 2015, the current Volkswagen GTI is, as expected, a performance-oriented version of the Volkswagen Golf. As such, it is available in two- and four-door hatchback body styles. There are three trim levels: S, SE and Autobahn.

As with the revamped Golf, the GTI's modestly restyled and enlarged exterior hides a significant engineering overhaul made to lighten and improve it. It gets more power and a revised suspension, making it even more athletic around corners, while inside sees even better materials and a more visually appealing design with controls canted toward the driver.

Powering the latest GTI is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 210 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automated manual known as DSG is optional. An optional Performance package adds 10 more horses along with larger front and rear brakes and an electronically controlled mechanical limited-slip front differential. The latter is a GTI first and helps the VW power out of turns. Another new option is an adaptive suspension system.

Standard feature highlights for the S include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED foglights, heated front seats, tartan cloth upholstery (a GTI tradition), a 5.8-inch touchscreen audio interface, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, iPod integration and VW Car-Net telematics. Stepping up to the SE trim adds a sunroof, keyless ignition and entry, a rearview camera, leather upholstery and a premium audio system. The Autobahn boasts a navigation system, a power driver seat and dual-zone automatic climate control. Option highlights include front and rear parking sensors, a forward collision warning system, bi-xenon headlights, 18-inch wheels and the aforementioned Performance package and adaptive suspension system.  

In reviews, we've noted that the GTI keeps its traditional strengths of refinement, practicality and quality, but boasts enhanced agility and performance. Energetic acceleration is accompanied by a great engine and exhaust soundtrack, while sharper handling and steering make the latest GTI a joy in the curves, all while instilling plenty of driver confidence. Gearchanges from the DSG automated manual transmission are usually quick and smooth. In heavy traffic, however, DSG occasionally stumbles, but it's rather minor in nature and overall the transmission is so good that purists may be tempted to forego a clutch pedal. Fortunately, the GTI's performance doesn't come at the expense of comfort. Besides the rather pleasant engine burble, the cabin remains fairly quiet and the suspension ably absorbs bumps and ruts.

Used Volkswagen GTI Models
The previous, sixth-generation GTI was produced from 2010 through 2014. Compared to its predecessor, this model boasted updated styling, additional interior refinement and some new features. It had a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission was standard and sent power to the front wheels. A dual-clutch automated manual transmission called DSG was optional.

Setting itself apart from its hot hatch contemporaries was the GTI's handsome and refined cabin outfitted with high-end features. These included heated sport seats, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen interfaces, iPod integration, a sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, a navigation system and leather upholstery in place of the standard tartan cloth.

In reviews, this GTI earned strong praise for its well-rounded nature and was considered a class leader. Although it was neither the most powerful nor the most aggressively tuned (for high-speed handling) entry in its small segment, the GTI made up for any such deficiencies with its comfortable ride, excellent fuel economy, spacious interior, classy styling, reasonable pricing and general refinement.

The fifth-generation Volkswagen GTI was introduced midway through the 2006 model year. Highlighted improvements for this generation include a stiffer body structure and a fully independent suspension. The 2006 model was available as a two-door hatchback only, while the four-door arrived the following year.

Like the generation that followed, this GTI was powered by a 200-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, though it was a different engine. A six-speed manual was standard and the DSG transmission was optional. In performance testing, we clocked this GTI from zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds.

Standard features included 17-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, sport seats, tartan upholstery and a 10-speaker stereo with six-CD changer and auxiliary audio jack ('07 forward). Optional features included 18-inch wheels, a sunroof, automatic climate control, heated front seats, leather upholstery, a DVD-based navigation system, satellite radio and a rudimentary iPod interface.

Changes were few. For 2007 only, you could also get the Fahrenheit trim that added orange paint, a sportier suspension and special 18-inch wheels along with several luxury features. Minor equipment changes occurred thereafter, including a lower ride height for better handling in 2008 along with an Autobahn package that added niceties like a sunroof, a premium audio system, leather upholstery and heated front seats. A "Thunderbunny" package available for 2009 offered sporty exterior styling elements such as a front spoiler and a rear valance.

In reviews, we declared that this Volkswagen GTI brought the car back to its glory years as an honest-to-goodness performance option. It was more comfortable than most of its competitors, which could be a detriment for some and a bonus for others. We were impressed with its high-quality interior, smooth and efficient powertrains, and commendable handling. If you can't afford a new GTI, this previous-generation model is close enough to leave you satisfied.

The fourth-generation GTI was produced for the 1999-2006 model years. Buyers should be aware that VW frequently overlaps its generational models for the GTI -- for example, both the fourth- and fifth-gen GTIs were sold for the 2006 model year. The fourth-generation VW GTI debuted in two trim levels -- GLS and GLX. The GLS had a 115-hp 2.0-liter engine and could be had with either a manual or automatic transmission. The GLX came with a 174-hp 2.8-liter six-cylinder "VR6" and a manual transmission only. The following year, VW replaced the 2.0-liter engine in the GLS with a much more sporting turbocharged 1.8-liter engine -- the 1.8T -- that produced 150 hp.

In general, the fourth-generation GTI was less sporting than other competing models of its time. This was especially true in terms of reflexes and handling, as the car had a relatively unsophisticated suspension and a somewhat hefty curb weight. It countered with a high-quality interior and superior versatility, however. GTIs for model years 2002 and newer would be preferable as they had more standard equipment and more power (180 hp for the 1.8T and 200 hp for the VR6). VW also offered a few special models for this generation -- the 2002 GTI 337, the similar 20th-anniversary 2003 GTI and the rare GTI R32 that had all-wheel drive and a 240-hp 3.2-liter V6.

The third-generation Volkswagen GTI was available from 1994-'99. For the most part, this model is not as desirable as other generations due to its anemic base engine. Though again a two-door hatchback based on the Golf, it debuted with the uninspiring 2.0-liter engine only. In 1995 the VR6 engine (172 hp) entered production alongside the 2.0-liter, and that's the one to have.

The early-1990s GTI was part of the car's second generation. Cars from this period had two versions of a 2.0-liter engine -- the more desirable was a 16-valve version producing 131 hp. Though this car did not quite produce as much excitement as the original Rabbit GTI, it outperformed it in many ways and could be considered the last of the nimble GTIs before VW started focusing more on comfort and features.

User Reviews:

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  2002 VW GTI - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By Carlos Z. - July 18 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car because of the exterior design and style but thats were it ends. This car was nothing but headaches and problems. I had problems with over heating, seat belt sensor, sunroof, alternator, battery, water pump, radio, ignition coils, engine hoses, coolant system, bad ECU, transmission, and thats just off the top of my head. Be ready to become best friends with your mechanic because youll be seeing him and a check engine light on a lot. Not to mention that all VW parts are extremely expensive. Safe your money people and get your self a honda or toyota. I would never buy another VW again i have sold it since and moved on to a honda best move ever made.

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  One Year Later--grin still plastered on face. - 2010 Volkswagen GTI
  By mjjackson76 - July 7 - 12:54 am

  Ive had my GTI (4dr, manual, 18s) for just over a year, and Im still enamored with the car. Its solid, speedy, handles amazingly well. Yes, could use more power, but I dont need it. Handling is what makes the car so fun. Ride is a bit harsh on bad pavement, but who cares? Buy a couch on wheels if you so desire. Stereo is fantastic but touchscreen is difficult while driving, shifter precise, engine note perfectly tuned and gas mileage good on the highway--26-28mpg on spririted freeway stints at 90mph; 33 best; 13 in city worst. Two issues: brake pad came apart at 4000 miles; rattles from pas. b-pillar at 8800 miles. No big deal--all replaced under warranty quickly. Cant wait for R20.

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  Fun for a price - 2007 Volkswagen GTI
  By monkeykins - June 19 - 11:51 pm

  Bought the car used in 2010. Selling it as soon as possible. I cant afford to keep sending it to the mechanic/fixing small things on the car. Ive had two tail lights burn out, both the xenon headlights go out ($80 a piece), AC compressor, electrical problems, and now it seems the coil packs need to be replaced. Its a great car, and fun to drive, but Ive had to drop it off almost every other month to get work done on it. Which wouldnt be as big a deal if the parts cost less than an arm+leg.

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  Does everything well - 2012 Volkswagen GTI
  By michel12 - June 18 - 9:48 pm

  I recently purchased a 2012 GTI with a DSG transmission and I think I like it. This is a car that does everything well: comfortable, fun to drive, excellent build quality, practical. My only criticism is with the DSG transmission. While the car is really fun to drive on Tiptronic, the Drive (D) mode is sluggish because the transmission shifts gears at very low speeds which makes it unresponsive especially on steep climbs, where it constantly hunts for the best gear. For those who dont mind driving a car with a manual transmission, I would advise to stay away from the DSG.

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  My GTI-Shes my baby - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By Dogdude - June 18 - 2:00 am

  While I had a terrible experience ordering a custom car (it took forever), I am glad I waited. Although the GTI may not be the fastest sport compact on the road, its low end torque makes it more fun in day to day driving conditions. The ride is superb with a sporty feel. The car does not show its true colors until it is on the highway. It is really an autobon car. I live in Colorado and can drive up in the mountains all the way in fifth gear. Those big 17s are really bad on snow though (even with ESP, traction control, locking diff, and front wheel drive). Overall though, I love this car.

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  VR6 power kicks up the fun - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By rocket500 - June 13 - 10:00 am

  Test drove both the 1.8t and the VR6. Could have had leather, roof and monsoon with the 1.8t for the same money, but I preferred the greatly increased low end tourque, 6 speed transmission and more reliable engine of the VR6 vs. the turbo. Handling is fairly good, although tuned more to comfort than true sport car performance. The wifes Focus SVT will run circles around it through the turns. All season tires dont help. Power of the motor is best feature- flexible, lots of grunt, smooth revs. Comfort is high. Sport seats are nice- supportive and comfortable. Highway ride is excellent.

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  Nice car, not good on NW roads - 2011 Volkswagen GTI
  By markb9 - June 6 - 6:16 am

  The 2011 GTI is without a doubt a nice car. It performs well, is fun to drive, and the interior is first rate. The only very disappointing aspect of the car is road noise. I dont expect a small sporty car to be super quiet, but this car has a split personality. I test drove it on some smooth highway and, as advertised, is very quiet. The problem with WA State is that a lot of the highway is fairly rough, and when this car hits rough road the interior noise goes up exponentially, it even makes my old Ford Ranger seem quiet. As I said, overall a very nice car, but like most other small cars its not going to be quiet.

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  Hated to see it go - 2009 Volkswagen GTI
  By cibaknife - June 3 - 8:07 am

  First let me say this car is a blast to drive. Economical on gas, although it requires premium. Almost Audi-like quality for a much lower price. The most entertaining car I have ever had. I looked forward to driving it. The hatchback versatility was great. Now the bad: the first battery lasted about a year and gave out in the middle of a road trip. CEL came on another trip for an intake sensor. At 50k miles the intake manifold had to be placed. At 55K the mass airflow sensor went. Dealership had poor service. I got the car back from them and sold it. I dont have time to sit in a VW dealership or be without a car for weeks at a time. Hated to see it go, though.

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  Great Car, Very Problematic - 2009 Volkswagen GTI
  By VW EHHH :( - May 21 - 2:46 pm

  I purchased this car and it seems I got unlucky with the buy vs other GTI owners who have never had any issues with the car. It has been one year, and already I have had about 3 major repairs done to the car. The car is great to drive, very fun, but I guess in my case very problematic and have been to the dealer with repairs in the last year over 7 times. From electrical issues, to an intake manifold being cracked from bad mold casting, to air conditioning falling apart and need replacement. However, I do recommend you purchase an extended warranty and VW has completed all repairs, but as far as satisfaction with the car. I am VERY VERY displeased and dissatisfied.

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  Great car... if you have a sense of humor - 2005 Volkswagen GTI
  By Extensioncord - April 21 - 6:53 am

  Good and bad. Smooth power, slick shifting, excellent handling, great ride and Audi-level interior design. Unfortunately, insurance is high, rattles and squeaks intrude on an otherwise library-quiet cabin, electonic gadgets are prone to failure. OnStar inoperative from day one. Buggy alarm/central locking system. Wouldn’t start at 5,200 mi, was towed. As this is my fourth VW, I’m used to the quirks … bad electrical systems, squeaks, leaks (like inch-deep puddles in my ’02 and that windows iced up on the INSIDE), stereo replacements, windows that fall into the doors, etc. The only question is: can YOU get used to it? Better make sure you have a good dealer. Otherwise, two words: CIVIC Si!