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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  Not Bad For a Box Car - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By Here for the Runnin - August 14 - 3:00 pm

  First, this car is a great travel car, the gas mileage is amazing! Performance and handling is great as long as you learn to get past the turbo lag (thank goodness for the 5-speed manual!). Interior could use some work. Plastic started popping apart at the 2 year mark and the seat does not accommodate heavier people which makes it uncomfortable to drive! It is not too bad with one child the way the front seats flip up and plenty of interior room! You can carry almost anything in this car and get there fast and for a factory radio it is great! I am not a big fan of box shaped cars but this one I have to say (since my hubby loved it) is not bad for a box car!

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  Great Little Car - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By Carl - July 30 - 12:06 pm

  I love my GTI 1.8T. Although, I am a little disappointed in it. I had to replace the passenger slide-arm entry actuator, replace the ignition cylinder (Froze on cold days) plus some other minor demo-induced wear. Fortunately, it was all covered under warrenty. I bought my 2004 in March of 2005 with 60 miles on it. It handles great, has fantastic excelleration and looks regal (in Reflex Silver). The dash is a pretty blue and red mix.

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  Always fun to drive - 2008 Volkswagen GTI
  By Terje - July 28 - 11:40 pm

  Ive owned several BMWs which all seem to fall apart @ 80K miles. My last 740I was very expensive to maintain & boring to drive. I wanted to try something more practical with better mileage. Im 41 so I thought my white GTI with 18"s was a practical, fun and young looking decision. So far I like it very much. The DSG is amazing. If you are considering the fun factor, compared to BMW, Audi & Honda, the GTI is a great choice.

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  VW Mk4 Gti 1.8t (TIPTRONIC) - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By Tanya Luther - July 27 - 4:44 pm

  So, I bought myself an 02 GTI about a year ago with 73,000 miles and it was a one owner car. Interior and exterior of the car was excellent. Sadly, 1 month after buying the car...the glove box door broke. The next month, my car started to make a horrible noise. Took it to my trustworthy mechanic, and he said that the waterpump had gone bad. Along with that I had the waterpump, timing belt, etc..replaced; $1,000. Later on, my heater blower, windshield wipers, and turn signals ALL went out...in the middle of winter. Come to find out after replacing a few things it was the relay switch; $35. Still not finished, after dealing with that. The check engine light came on, needed a NEW TRANSMISSION.

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  Sporty Practicality - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By 737 Jock - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Daily driver that is nearly as much fun as my Vette. Outstanding low end torque and acceleration. (No WRX-like turbo lag.) Very good steering and brakes/ better than a WRX/ not quite as good as SVT Focus, but combined with lux car quiet and ride, it beats them both. Monsoon has great bass. Firm, comfortable, high bolstered sport seats with excellent heaters. Many items from Audi parts bin. No reliability issues at all. A practical mini-Vette.

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  love, love, love this car! - 2006 Volkswagen GTI
  By lilcoop - July 8 - 10:00 am

  my first 06 GTI was unfortunately a bit of a lemon. i wrote a sad review titled love/hate relationship. we parted ways, and i subsequently drove 4 other vehicles in 9 months, but i couldnt forget the love i had for my GTI. so i gave VW german engineering another chance, and bought another 06 GTI equipped exactly the same as the first. i love this car! it has been totally reliable, required only routine maintenance (and the occasional recall stuff), handled long road trips and daily commutes with ease. its a blast to drive in town and on the highway. im so glad i gave the GTI a 2d chance. im now a VW convert!

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  Love it. Did my homework and am happy! - 2011 Volkswagen GTI
  By jazzbank - July 8 - 10:00 am

  For starters, Im not a racerboy nor a true sports car fan. I wanted a great balance of features, fun, and practicality. I did a ton a research before landing on the GTI (3 months worth!). Fit and finish are above the competition it really feels like an Audi or other premium brand. I can haul people or cargo and still accelerate quickly into any pocket on the freeway or sneak a parking space on a crowded street. It handles really well and is silky smooth if you use a light touch. It can feel a little jerky depending on the road, but overall a great ride. I dont know if I can ever go back to a regular sedan or compact. I decided on this after a lifetime of Toyotas and Hondas, but this is fun

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  The pleasures of driving a 2001 GTi VR6 - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By o2bavr6 - July 4 - 2:00 am

  This the 3rd GTi Ive owned and have had the car now for about 3 years. I never tire of driving it. The VR6 has such a wondeful power band. It also handles quite well for a hatchback with a V6 in it. I havent had many troubles with the car at all, and the ones I did were covered under warranty. 2004 VW R32 here I come.

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  Great Machine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By jakesphere - July 4 - 2:00 am

  Awesome Autombile! I would recommend it to anybody if one is available to purchase!

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  great fun, comfort - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By Robert H - July 4 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this car for almost a year and love it. Its daily driveability but sporty nature make this the perfect sports car for the man who wants fun but doesnt want to sacrifice comfort for it. I love the styling and how it separates this car from others on the road. the performance is great as well. Stay away from automatic transmissions - in VWs stable they are horrible. the 1.8T i test drove felt the same as the VR6, but with some lag. they say there is "almost no lag", but i felt some. the VR6 is a charm. get the VR6! price wasnt favorable compared to the competition either...