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 - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By mrhank - August 12 - 2:00 am

  this is my 6th new VW and through the last three model runs mk2, jetta3 and now Golf GTI IV the improvement is outstanding not to mention the extra room and the refined interior and ergonomics,quality of trim and details like heated seats and traction control make this vehicle a class in its own. Only issues have been the ignition coil recall which I was able to crawl the car to the dealer and a loaner and immediate one day repair where provided,also pwer window mech failed but also was repaired on the spot maintenance has been 3 $50 services and so far 2 years into it that is all other than gas that Ihave invested in this vehicle

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  Great MPG and Fun to Drive! - 2009 Volkswagen GTI
  By Campbell - August 8 - 7:30 am

  We needed to upsize from my 2 seater to something our growing family. The VW can hold 5 for lunch or 2 adults and 2 kids comfortably. My commute is 35 miles each way, this thing is great for moving through traffic on the freeway. It has a quiet interior and solid feel. The ride is superb. While some of the competition is stiffer and rolls less, that is a very low percentage of the real world driving needs. It is fun to drive in a nicely composed package.

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  Great fun - 2007 Volkswagen GTI
  By Dan W - August 8 - 12:03 am

  Ive put almost 2000 m. on my GTI. The more I drive it, the more I like it. Its great fun. VW should be applauded for building a terrific car for reasonable $. There is really no competition for the GTI, except for its cousin, the Audi A3. The GTI is quick and handles great; it even sounds wonderful - similar to a Honda VTEC at high rpm and it has a low growl when you give it some gas at low rpm. The rest of the time, its quiet, as it should be. The build quality is excellent, too. The Civic Si, is no match for the VW in every day driving. The VW has much more low/mid range torque. Its a joy to drive and the Civic would be a chore. And, the GTIs hatchback design is much more practical.

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  Abaun Dream - 2008 Volkswagen GTI
  By mattman - August 4 - 1:56 am

  I looked at SUVs first but with gas costing so much I decided a 4 dr hatchback would be better; they offer a lot of utility/space. I did a lot of research before buying and 95% of the online sources recommended the GTI. The overall GTI package cant be beat! Handling is secure, safety top-notch and with the standard features youd think the GTI would run $30K. Also, the 2.0L turbo 4 cyl, and the DSG auto tranny is straight from the Audi A4, a $40K+ car. Its nice to see F1 engineering trickle from Audi down to the VW making this car stand way ahead of competitors like Honda and MINI. Put this car on the top of your list, its on C&D 10 best cars 2 years running for all the right reasons!

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  Just what I expected and more - 2006 Volkswagen GTI
  By drew - August 1 - 7:06 pm

  I dont really feel like typing out a long review, but Ive owned an 03 GTI before this and the jump from a previous generation to the current generation is so substantial that its as if they rebuilt the entire car from the ground up. The chassis rigidity is superb and the motor is definitely worthy of the awards it has been receiving, both for around the town and even on a track. While this may not be a performer like the STi or Evo, it holds its own quite well. If its stock performance really bugs you enough, there are many tuner choices for just a simple ECU upgrade that pumps the car up ~50 horsepower and ~80 torque. Ive no complaints with the car at all other than no lsd.

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  Hot-hatch, Cheap Speed, All kinda fun - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By jwestie85 - July 18 - 2:06 pm

  Im only 27 yrs old, but have gone through cars like water because i suffer from, "Gotta have the next thing-itis", and yeah, its terminal. But anywho, this little car has got to be one of the best values for any one who REALLY loves to drive, and drive fast. This car fells uber strong 1st through 3rd gear, and the higher gears arent too shabby either. (In 3rd at 6500 RPM, youre doing 85mph) The gas mileage isnt great if you stay in it, but is capable of getting 26 mpg or so on interstate. The 6 spd manual is an absolute dream to drive, takes learning to drive it right, but when you and the car agree, its a beautiful thing. Summary: The Germans build drivers cars.

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  Love this car - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By Amy - July 10 - 10:00 am

  No mods and Im terrible at maintenance. I pay about $1000 every other year on maintenance, usually get get rid of the check engine light. Love the car. Im going to keep it as long as it keeps going. I cant find another car with all the features this has. Manual is the way to go. Even as a used car I would recommend. Quite reliable.

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  Great Car - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By Oliver - July 4 - 2:00 am

  I test drove many cars, including an RSX type S, a Celica GT-S, a Matrix, and Subaru WRX. Among all those, the GTI was the best bang for the buck. It has great performance and handles very nimbly with the 17" optional wheels. The fit and finish is above and beyond any of the vehicles I tested. Overall a very well crafted piece of machinery.

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  337 Edition is for real - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By Merlin - June 28 - 10:00 am

  I actually had to go to Vegas to get my 337 edition but it was WELL worth it. The extra 30 hp is a huge difference. The six speed manual is perfect and this car turns heads. The 18 wheels and 40 series tires grip the road like crazy and this thing is a little rocket. I love everything about this car, the recaro seats really hold you in place when cornering hard and this car loves to be pushed to its limits. If you can get your hands on one I would suggest you do it.

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  The best fun car - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By Jorge Santaella - June 19 - 10:00 am

  It is a very comfortable car. Perfect performance, the engine is fantastic. Very powerful and fun. The car has very cool style and is fun to drive. The price is excellent for what you get. It is a lot of a car with a very affordable price. If you want a car with style, power and afordability, this is the one for you. Jorge M . Santaella (Chicago)