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 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...

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  Fun to drive - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By frekt - June 27 - 2:00 am

  2002 GTI bought in Nov 01. Very excited to get this car. Definately fun to drive, 5 speed, 1.8T, sweeeet. 25000 miles on my Indigo Blue baby. Irritating things: Cant keep Indigo clean! Bird poop damages paint, cheap rubber coating on interior door handles peeling, rear speaker quit, center console latch broke, louvre under passenger headlight fell out, headlight replaced, replaced each window regulator at least three times, check engine light four times. By now Ive owned the car 2 1/2 years and have had it at the dealer at least 10 times for problems above. All relatively minor problems but what a pain in the keester.

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  Way too many small & stupid problems - 2006 Volkswagen GTI
  By Vik - June 12 - 10:10 am

  I have had so many problems with this car in terms of rattles that its not even funny. In terms of engine, driving, fun factor, etc., its great, but when you have to turn your stereo on every single time you drive just so you can drown out the sounds of the rattles, that stinks. I really like the way this car looks, handles and drives, but I have had way too many little problems with this car, noises, quirks, weather strips coming off, to ever want to buy a VW again.

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  Fun to drive but.............. - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By karma72 - May 9 - 10:00 am

  I really like this car but I cant believe the problems I ve had the past 2 years. Five times the windows have fallen down into the doors, various plastic pieces inside keep falling off or break, the headlights suddenly stopped working, and the tail lights have had problems. My dealer has fixed most of these problems without charge but Volkswagen will not even admit there is an epidemic with the window situation and are non cooperative on the customer service phone. The car is a blast to drive but I really have to question the overall quality of some of the design, and Volkswagen needs to fess up to the window problem and do a recall.

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  Great performance--Poor Reliability - 2000 Volkswagen GTI
  By kathyf - May 2 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for a few months, and Im already planning to sell it. Its fast, cool, and fun to drive, BUT its very unreliable. Heres a rundown of the problems Ive had over the 5 months Ive owned the car: the passenger-side window fell off its tracks completely, the hose to the back winshield wiper stopped working, sprang a leak and ruined the interior cloth panels covering the ceiling and side of the car, a seat handle keeps falling off, and the glove compartment hinge snapped. Of course, its warranty just expired. Grand total to have this fixed? $900-- ouch!

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  Ive Had Mine a Year, Time To Review... - 2008 Volkswagen GTI
  By Eric - April 16 - 3:53 pm

  I bought this car even though I knew all about VWs terrible reputation for unreliable build quality, overpriced dealer service, and poor customer relations due to the 1.8T and its sludge issue. Why would anyone do that? I blame BBC America! Top Gears rave review and Jeremy Clarksons wistful reminiscences of his MKI Scirocco lured me into the dealership for a very fateful test drive. The GTI made my Scion TC feel like a Yugo; it was so much more responsive, faster, better brakes, agile, and afterward getting back into my faithful and dependable Toyota product was just depressing. The dealership screwed me on price and interest rate because I had to have the car right now and was a moron.

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  Rally style Dunbuggy - 2007 Volkswagen GTI
  By Great Fast dunbuggy - April 14 - 10:00 am

  My Gti was the perfect car for me. I am a college student and I am more than likely always in a rush. The Gti has a great responsive clutch and the ability to grip the road better than most bmws along side with the performance the maintenance was extremely high than most its competitives but I rarely had to take it to the shop. I drove the car from California to Georgia with no problems or issues the ride was comfortable and enjoyableIve had it for two years and the quality was good compared to others of that same year. I had little problems with the electronics like the iPod connector and the windows.

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  Great Car - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By M NINE - April 8 - 6:10 pm

  This is an amazing car if you want an affordable, convenient, all-purpose, luxurious daily driver thats fast enough to have some fun in. I bought it at 42k, have driven it on many road trips as well as LA daily traffic, which has brought me up to 59k in a year and a half.

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  Too many trips to the dealership - 2005 Volkswagen GTI
  By Qlueless - April 3 - 10:33 am

  I have taken this car to the dealership more times in 9 months than my toyota has been in 8 years. I think right now there is water leaking on the passanger side floor, and also the trunk. I have had the trunk lock fixed twice, rear washer, drivers door lock, window fell inside door, had to be towed becuase it would not start, car alarm was going off every night at 3am. Had to leave battery disconnected everytime I got out of the car or the alarm would go off. Drivers seat stuck in place. I used to be a VW mechanic years ago, and this will be the LAST VW that I ever buy.