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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  vroom!!! vroom!!! - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By babs johnson - March 13 - 2:00 am

  this thing flies. i just sold my saab 900 turbo and this thing gets just as much zip for half the cash. handles well with a nice interior. but for a "hatch back" it could use a lot more trunk space. also its 2002 could we please make it standard to have a cd player. im finding along with other vw owners that the stock batteries die early. mine died twice during the test drive!

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  GTI Rocks! - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By tx gti lover - March 4 - 10:00 am

  I love my GTI! I bought it for the engine and hatchback and this car has never disappointed me. It has so many wonderful features and its very user- friendly. My experience with VW service makes Mr. Goodwrench look like a hack. And the roadside assistance is outstanding! Rather than Joes Haul-It, you get AAA when you buy a VW. After a year and a half, Im still thrilled with my GTI - all my car-buying money will go to VW for as long as I buy cars.

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  chris - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By chris3033 - March 4 - 10:00 am

  it is fun and fast and it can be a chick magnet

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  Pocket Rocket w/ 200 ponies - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By Drew - March 2 - 10:00 am

  just got last week,absolutely love it. driven many nice cars in my day, mothers 2001 M5 and dads 2002 carerra 4 porsche, have to say this car is equally as fun if not more fun to drive. this car handles like its on rails also. also, before this i had a 2000 jetta glx. i can notice a huge difference in build quality between the gti and my old jetta. my jettas center console rattled like a piece of shit. a great purchase as well as a great deal. the dealer let it go to me for $24,000 which was about $650 below the sticker.

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  GTI 1.8T - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By CHUCK BITTMAN - February 24 - 2:00 am

  THIS CAR PICKS UP AND MOVES JUST AS QUICK AS THE BMW 318 AND 325 FOR MUCH LESS. I GET MAD LOOKS DRIVING IT. MY ONLY ISSUE IS WITH THE MOONSOON STERIO SYSTEM I GOT THE UP GRADE WITH 200WATT AMP AND THE SPECKERS CANT HANDLE THE OUT PUT. I HAVE ALREADY REPLACED ONE SPECKER WITHIN THE FIRST TWO WEEKS OF BUYING MY CAR AND NEED TO REPLACE MORE.

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  2002 GTI - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By Jane - February 16 - 1:00 am

  The 2002 GTI was my first new vehicle that wasnt American made. I drove a Suburban for years for business and finally got the opportunity to retire the "gas guzzler". I chose the VW GTI based on safety first of all, knowing I wanted a more efficient vehicle...little did I know it would develop into a total passionate love for the little car. The thing fits me like a glove, handles like a dream, and is SO much fun to drive. I got it all paid off a few months ago. I have my eyes on a new one should I ever decide I could bear to part with this one. My 27 year old son says HE MUST buy this one from me when and if I ever do.

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  2 hot, 2 fun, 2 fast - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By Hayabusa - February 7 - 10:00 am

  I juss got my 2003 GTI VR6 at last tuesday, which was August, 8th. This little machine is extremely fast and with composure. Im having break-in period up to 1,000 miles, so I mostly shift up at 2000~3000 rpm. On my research, I considered ACURA RSX TYPE- S, HYUNDAI TIBURON GT V6, MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE GT, and of course VOLKSWAGEN GTI VR6. Im very picky about cars. After all I chose GTI VR6, and Im 99.9% satisfying with my decision. I had pretty great deal on my GTI, because of season(end of 2003) and EDMUNDS.COMs TMV pricing. It helped a lot. My buddy also bought 2003 GTI VR6 before I was. Im very proud of my GTI VR6.

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  I love my GTI VR6! - 2000 Volkswagen GTI
  By jloden - January 15 - 10:00 am

  This is my favorite car ever! Fun to drive. Never left me stranded. Had my window drop, but got it fixed. I get 24 mpg in the city, too..but its a V6...what do you expect? If you want better gas mlg, get a 4-cyl. I was going to get the Acura RSX Type-S until I drove this car! Tight, fast, comfy, safe. I dont see any reason to get any other make but VW...now that they have the Toureg!

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  BEST CAR EVER - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By swede3333 - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Germans at it again. Nothing beats german performance, quality, and reliability like a german car. If a tin box with a motor is what you are looking for, head to the japanese makets, if your looking for unreliability you can find those right here in America. Wouldnt buy any other car.

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  A solid, blast-to-drive, quick, legend! - 2005 Volkswagen GTI
  By George Pitt - December 23 - 8:10 pm

  The VW GTI is an automotive LEGEND worldwide! Its been around, in one form or another, for over 25 years, and has been the sports-hatch bargain of choice for countless drivers seeking affordable performance and style the world over. The 24 valve VR6 is no exception. What an awesome engine! It can be argued that this is one of the BEST GTIs EVER, given the superb quality and engineering evident inside and out. The interior is absolutely impeccable, with fit and finish worthy of an Audi or BMW. The exterior design and overall looks convey German class and performance, especially with the gorgeous 17 inch Monte Carlo rims, which enable the car to perform admirably. A very TIGHT car!