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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  24V 6-speed GTI - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By GPS - April 22 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. Great power across the RPM range and a lot fun blasting through curvy country roads. I strongly sugest test driving one if you are thinking of an RSX, WRX, or Sentra Spec V (what I was deciding between).

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  Might as well buy one - 2006 Volkswagen GTI
  By lschw - February 4 - 5:16 pm

  Got a 2006 GTI after my 2004 GTI was destroyed by lightning. I dont like the non-linear response of the turbo, but after two years and 16,000 miles I no longer care. This GTI is more powerful, faster, and much roomier than before. Gets 23mpg in town and the low 30s @ 75mph with cruise. In mkIV GTIs the ESP (traction control) would slam on the brakes at the worst possible time. No longer. VW has transformed ESP into cornering ecstasy. Take a corner too fast, it scrubs off perfectly. Step on the gas in high speed corners, some wheels accelerate and some brake, the car digs in, and away you go. Only a computer can calculate and respond fast enough to do that. Just amazing!

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  fun, but is it reliable??? - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By yesborisgo - January 22 - 2:00 am

  i think for $25,000 thisis the car to get if you looking for somthing good looking inside and out. Lot of fun to drive since you get a lot from it s v6 engine combined with the very luxurious looks inside. Yet its kryptonite is the reliability. Since i bought it i hadit more in service garage than in mine.

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  VR6 - 2000 Volkswagen GTI
  By Big Mac - January 3 - 10:00 am

  This car is great. Even after 71000 miles I still enjoy opening up on some deserted back road. She has lost a step or two since she was new. The windows gave he alot of trouble, finaly they got it right with the new regulator clip. No problems since. Well see after another 70000.

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  2000 GTI VR6 - 2000 Volkswagen GTI
  By sgooch70 - November 3 - 8:23 pm

  This is a great car to drive, the VR6 is a excellent. The backseats are almost worthless though. I have kids, so I am getting a larger car, however I am going to keep the GTI. I am going to keep it because when the back seats are folded down you would not believe the utility it has. I have used it to haul 6 full sized railroad ties, 1/2 a pallet of landscaping bricks (a 3/4 ton truck can only carry 1 full pallet), 4x8 peg boards, and I have two 80 lb. Labrador Retrieves - both can sleep comfortably in the back. I bought it with 60,000 miles, and I have put about $2,000 into it, and the used VW warranty has covered about $3,000 in repairs. The car has been solid since 80,000 miles. I have 91,000 on it now.

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  Quality a problem - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By belliott77 - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my GTI new just over a year ago and was extremely happy with it for about 3 months and then I started getting rattles in the dash that the dealer has been unable to get fix, their attitude is, what did you expect... and now I am getting more rattles in the door panels. The quality just isnt what it should be. This is my 5th VW, but unfortunately it will be my last.

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  VWs need some quality control - 2000 Volkswagen GTI
  By 1eire - September 21 - 10:00 am

  I took a trip from Texas to NY and was impressed by the ride quality, the effortless way the engine pulled the car through mountains, and that I was getting 30+ highway mpg during the trip. In NY I stopped at a toll booth and rolled down the window. The window actually fell into the door and was rattling around. I found a VW dealer and they fixed it for free even though it was barely out of warranty. Nice but a window regulator shouldnt fail after 24k miles. The passenger window failed at 30k miles. VWs like the GTI and Passat drive beautifully but are also high priced for their categories and the quality and reliability should match the price. Unfortunately, that is not happening.

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  The 50-mile review - 2012 Volkswagen GTI
  By nkanafan - September 20 - 5:43 pm

  This is a 50 mile "first impressions" for my GTI autobahn, DSG, 4dr. The plethora of positive reviews online are right: excellent build quality, amazing driving dynamics, quiet smooth ride for size, excellent brakes, and great looking with a squat, low stance. The DSG takes getting used to and does feel hesitant at first but "squirts" you around town. As with previous GTIs, torque is abundant. I put two boosters and a nine year old in the back no problem! They are skinny though. Issues. There are a few minor ergonomic foibles. With the correct driving position for me, the steering wheel obstructs the top of speedo. Some controls are too low and parts of them cannot be visualized.

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  Exactly What I Expected and Thought I Wanted. - 2011 Volkswagen GTI
  By bwschubert - August 28 - 3:02 pm

  I feel this car has delivered exactly what was promised based on reputation and car magazine reviews. It is fun to drive, especially with the sweet shifting manual and quickly spooling engine, the ergonomics are exactly aligned to how I think, and the hatchback practicality is obviously a big plus. I have had absolutely zero reliability issues over 16,000 miles and 13 months and have not experienced any poor customer service when I have been to the dealership. After a over a year though, I cannot stand the leather seats as they are not perforated and are always disgustingly hot, and the exterior styling looks cheap from some angles.

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  Quirky but a blast to drive - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By morndew - August 25 - 12:43 am

  This car is VERY fun to drive. There are a couple spots in the power curve in which it accelerates like it has a nitrous tank. Floor it while doing 20 mph or 60 mph and youll feel the giddyup. I have had to take the car back to the dealership twice, once to replace the window lifts, which left the window open on a cold November night miles from home. Not fun! There was also a recall on the ignition coil. On cold wet mornings I occasionally experience a reluctance from the motor to get going. This may be more ignition coil problems or something else, I dont know. But when you can drive twisty roads like youre in a go-kart, its easy to forget the periodic trips to the shop.