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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  Fun to drive. A lot of $$$$ to repair - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By cjluvdub - February 27 - 9:51 am

  When I drove this car off the lot it was 9 years old good condition low miles. But within a few months the problems started, needed a new fuel pump trans. started slipping shifting hard intermittently car would die once shut off and required discon & recon of battery at least once a month. Window regulator broken, drivers window switch broken, seat belt & drivers door sensor dont work(purchased it like this) & now with 110k the cat. convert is failing along with the o2 sensors(not cheap parts!) & the current problem is the braking when I first drive in the morning the brake pedal & brakes feel like theyre pulsating and then it goes away for the rest of the day might be time to trade...

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  Fun so far... - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By Hockey GTI - February 23 - 10:00 am

  Put some real seats in the car; build for 58" and under. With seat all the way back, shifting/steering too far away. Seats are rock hard and bolsters are right angles to the seat bottom. Some engineer is having a good laugh over his cup holder design. Remote oil filter would be nice, so you don’t have to take the car apart to get at the oil filter. No way not to spill oil out of the filter when removing it. Armrest is in the way. After working on the seats,

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  So Far, Love this Car - 2012 Volkswagen GTI
  By caseydog3 - January 11 - 8:45 pm

  After buying a new 2012 VW passat in July 2012, I decided to trade it in for a new 2012 GTI. While the passat was a nice BIG family sedan, I wanted to drive something fun and sporty. Also, I was having alot of trouble seeing at night with the Passat. Anyway, I got the new GTI over the weekend. It is so entirely different than the passat. I can understand why people say they look forward to driving it everyday. I feel the same way. The visibility, comfort and feel of the car is so great. Its smaller, but still has plenty of room. I find that Im playing the stereo less now because I like listening to the sound of the engine and the turbo.

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  Fun to drive every single day - 2000 Volkswagen GTI
  By kbzensen - December 30 - 10:00 am

  The GTI VR6 is truly a great car. I used it for my daily 1-hour commute to work and its fun to drive every single day. Excellent styling, oustanding engine performance, actually the car is probably overpowered if you observe speed limits. Handling is really nice and you often fit in a parking spot that other cars dont. Nevertheless, its no problem to transport a larger amount of boxes/suitcases; after flipping over the rear bench the car seems like a small delivery van. I am not terribly happy with MPG (about 24 on the highway) and the small gas tank.

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  Overpowered ;^} Underbraked :-( - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By BanjoMike - December 12 - 11:40 am

  My last two cars before this were Porsches. I wanted something practical and fun. The GTI fit the bill. Out of the box the GTIs handling is sporty but not overly reasurring. The shocks seem a bit soft. But when pushed hard it really does very well. It is predicatble, powerful, controllable, tossable, and fun. The limiting factor in the performace is definately the brakes. Extended hard driving will lead to noticble brake fade. It will seat adults in the back seat comfortably; has lots of cargo space; has power everything (almost); and is FAST. The GTI proves to the US that a hatchback can be a luxury car! Finally the motor. It just loves to go. Its all about the tourque! Wow.

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  Great idea, terrible execution - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By das26_2 - December 7 - 10:00 am

  The car could be one of the best for a small sporty cars. My car has been in the shop 12 TIMES for ignition coil problems and there has been little to no satisfaction from Corporate. This is my 4th VW and by far the one with the most problems. The coils will have you in the shop every couple months and the service is terrible.

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  firsttimeVdub - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By firsttimevdub - November 21 - 11:00 pm

  This is my first VW. Bought it used with 41K on it, and its now got 123k and still going strong. This car is probably the most under-rated vehicle Ive ever owned. Its super quick off the line, and even makes a nice cruiser on the highway. I drive quite a bit for work and have always had sufficient power I need to get around the freeways of Southern California. Its been a great car with no major issues. I feed it synthetic oil and 91 octane gas and it in turn, gets me where I need to go every single day. Im sorry to have to sell it and get a 4 door, but if youre looking for a great car and dont need room for say, a child seat, Id definitely check it out.

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  Pure FUN - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By supadupagti - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Just an amazing car to drive!!!

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  GTI Over-rated and Over-priced - 2007 Volkswagen GTI
  By RP - October 23 - 1:23 am

  German engineering is over rated...The new DSG paddle shifting automatic transmission was a problem. On 3 occasions, the transmission refused to go from reverse to drive. The "D" symbol had a flashing box over the letter and would not engage. Everyday for two years when putting the car in drive it would take 5 or more seconds to engage a gear. Numerous trips to VW service was a waste of time despite describing the problem in detail the issue was never solved. Paint quality is poor, clear coat over the black paint would chip off, starting on the roof. Flaws in the paint job from day one we. Front seats were too narrow between the bolsters, uncomfortable. Very poor dealership support!!

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  2003 gti - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By surfguy - October 22 - 2:00 am

  Mine is a 2003 GTI 1.8turbo. I hope I have the new metal window regulators, and the new "j" type coil packs. For people reading this if I have the two items listed above I would give this car a 10!. GTI 2002 and earlier have had so many issues with these two problems. Infact I believe VW is doing what they call "a silent recall" regarding these issues. But the good news is....even if it does break your still under warranty right ! Bad news is...will they have the part ? So my overall score would be a 8.5 . Fun to drive, good looks, handles good for stock, fast even un-chipped, and a new better longer warranty from vw starting for the 2002 and up modles.