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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  Hes Oaky~~~ - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By jjazzman - September 5 - 10:00 am

  I had some problems in the beginning where Brake light will be keep coming on. This is fixed now. It was a bad brake fluid sensor. If any of you are from NJ I definitely recommend Three County VW for service. I didnt like any of the dealer in Allentown area. back to the car. Car is Ok except the Monsoon stereo is bad. paly with balance where front left spk has no bass compared to the right side. My fried did fixes using service bulletin VW put out. it still didnt fix the problem.

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  20AE GTI - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By AUmphrey - September 1 - 10:00 am

  I love the 18 inch wheels, it could be a little quicker... I love this car!

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  I love my Fast, but drop me an inch - 2006 Volkswagen GTI
  By Roger W. - August 29 - 9:56 pm

  This is my 4th VW and 2nd GTI and I have to say that the fit and finish are great, and the performance is what I expected. After driving a Saturn SL2 for 165,000 miles this cars steering is amazingly responsive, the 6-speed gearbox takes a little getting use to, and the brakes do stop you very quickly. Time to go run Redwood and have another Porsche for breakfast!

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  Drives great - but noisy - 2010 Volkswagen GTI
  By Raymond - August 26 - 2:20 pm

  Wonderful care to drive - handling and feel are top notch. On a recent 5000 mile road trip I experienced no discomforts and exceeded 31 mpg easily. Problem is build quality is poor. The car has been full of rattles and squeaks since day 1, has some misaligned trim and is considerably under-optioned compared to its competitors (and also its predecessor) examples: climate control, auto-dimming mirror

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  THE original hot hatch. - 2010 Volkswagen GTI
  By cgoldrick - August 24 - 11:10 pm

  Coming from a 94 325i, I was looking for something that was as fun to drive, but would also be kind to my wallet. This fine machine fits the bill perfectly, putting a silly grin on your face every time you press the accelerator, unleashing that sonorous tone from the two chrome-tipped exhaust pipes. If you are sensible with the throttle, the car is even capable of 34 mpg on the highway, which is amazing, considering what this is capable of. Handling is fairly neutral until you really push it, at which point you are reminded its FWD. The interior makes you feel as if you are in a vehicle costing thousands more, perhaps tens of thousands. The quality of the materials is really that good

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  Oh My Gawd - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By Dpak4eva - August 23 - 2:00 am

  This car is one of a kind. Its fast, comfortable, Luxuriioosss... One improvement tho can be the suspension. Kinda boggy and has lotta Body Roll.

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  170,000 Miles and Still Going Strong - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By Cat - August 14 - 9:50 pm

  This is my first VW and I wouldnt hesitate to buy another one. I havent had any problems with this car other than having to pop the CD changer in and out a couple times before it will work, and the wipers sometimes are fickle if the temp drops below 40F. I also had to get used to the controls. Its speedy and fun to drive, and my 63" roommate fits in it comfortably as well as two sets of hockey gear. With other cars Ive noticed lag in power if the car is loaded up, but not this one. It costs a little more to maintain that the average American car, but if it goes another 100,000 miles I wont complain. It does have some quirky design flaws that I dont like, but have been fixed in more recent models.

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  Best Gti Ever - 2010 Volkswagen GTI
  By jdscha - August 5 - 5:10 pm

  I have had this car for a few weeks. I have put 500 miles on it so far. I have been looking for any type of manufacturing defects but have not found one yet.

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  Excellent machine! - 2011 Volkswagen GTI
  By Gary Haikin - August 5 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased the car a week ago, was very lucky to find candy white I wanted with the manual transmission. I was shopping for Audi A4, but realised that significant premium in price is not worth it. It has vertially the same engine and the same features (except Quattro), since Audi eliminated all goodies last year to save money. Engine is very powerful and torqey. Its a lot of fun to drive, it has a well appointed high quality interior. Its rather spacious inside and looks nice outside. Though the last one is according to the taste. The gearshifter is precise, the brakes are strong and the steering is tight. The dashboard layout is convinient and instrument cluster is easy to read.

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  Best Car Ive Driven for the Price! - 2007 Volkswagen GTI
  By Josh - August 1 - 1:56 pm

  The GTI is really fast. I dont think there is any Honda in the same class that can be a match for the MkV GTI. Even the S2000 only has 40hp more, but 50lb/ft less than the GTI. Its the best purchase Ive ever made.