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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  the hot hatch lives again - 2010 Volkswagen GTI
  By volsfan0911 - June 26 - 1:46 pm

  Had for 1 week now. Although VW has a bad rap for reliability, so far, so good. Build quality is outstanding both inside and out. 2.0L turbo 4 banger is a beautiful motor - torque band starts right off idle practically and pulls cleanly to 6K. Shifter, clutch, steering, seats, real handbrake (a lever, not a stupid foot pedal) - all the drivers controls are excellent. No torque steer, XDS genuinely helpful. Not as fast as a MS3 but much more composed and refined. My only car and is a GREAT commuter IMHO. Reasonable mileage, comfy enough for road trips yet an absolute blast to hit backroads on. Feels much quicker than the numbers suggest. And its FAST - 100 mph comes up quickly!

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  GTI is Here to Stay - 2006 Volkswagen GTI
  By Ian - June 20 - 10:46 pm

  I absolutely love my GTI. Its nimble, tourqey, and comfortable. I get compliments from everyone! For the price, this car is in a league of its own. I was at first apprehensive about the plaid seats, but they have grown on me. The interior layout and build quality is top notch. And the rear seat is surprisingly roomy, two large adults fit back there with room to spare. My only complaint is that seats need a crank for reclining instead of the knob. Once I turn the ignition and take it on the road I forget about all the bad and simply love taking it fast around corners!

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  Amazing Car - 2006 Volkswagen GTI
  By Brock Harrison - June 20 - 8:53 pm

  This is my second Volkswagen and I didnt think VW was going to be able to make a better car than my 2001 Jetta, but I was so wrong. The new GTI is amazing! It handles like its on rails, it is super quick with almost no turbo lag, and has the best interior ever. The seats are comfy and secure you like you were straped into them with a 4 point harnesses. The xenon lights, that come standard, brighten the road extremely well. The brakes and suspension are amazing. It stops on a dime and you never get the feeling that you arent going to stop in time. The suspension rides so comfortably but handles so well in turns. Honda you better watch out!

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  So far so good - 2012 Volkswagen GTI
  By deeperseoul - June 13 - 11:56 pm

  My first VW ever and digging it!. Ive always had interest in GTI and there was 0% apr opportunity back in July. One test drive pretty much sold me the car. My attachment of this car is almost equal to the time when i got my first car back in 1988(Nissan Maxima). Although, brand new car picked up from the dealer was already defective with faulty head light ballester, it has not given me any other issues so far. I see why people rave about this car...driving this car is very gratifying. It may not be the most powerful or reliable car but for me, this car has more personality than competitors.

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  200 HP V-6 is a winner - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By trillium - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I kept waiting for "buyers regret" to set in and it hasnt. The torque the engine provides pulls all the way to redline and the six speed manual gives you all the choices you need to keep you entertained. The car has the added benefit of not attracting undue attention from the local police. Having ESP (stability control) instead of ASR (plain old traction control) is a big benefit for Minnesota winters.

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  Fun Car - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By krauss - June 12 - 2:00 am

  Just got the 5 speed 03 right before the 04s were coming out. Outfitted with leather, esp, 17" wheels, and luxury package. got it for 19,600 so im pretty pleased. first time buying a new car, but i found one of the last GTIs in California, and called them up and said 19,600 - ill buy it right now. guess that works. no problems thus far, the clutch took some breaking in, but its smooth now. occasional rattle in the car, hard to keep black interior clean, but the car can move. make no mistake about it, they say it can take any gasoline, but only premium will make it behave like a GTI. sunroof is great, looking forward to driving it home after work.

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  I look forward to driving it every day! - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By deepfry - June 12 - 2:00 am

  My decision to go from my long-time favorite brands Honda/Acura to VW is largely due to the fact that the quality / feature / price of Honda in the recent years simply cant match that of the now Brazil-made GTI. This car has plenty of torque to offer when accelerating despite of its relatively heavy chassis. However, with stock suspension it handles only adequately. I know it is not really fair to compare its handling with my modded 5th gen. Civic Si HB but I have a hard time getting used to the softer suspension and the annoying turbo lag. It just lacks the nimble, swift and responsive feeling I am used to.

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  The best new car mod platform under 20K - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By LotsABoost - June 4 - 10:00 am

  I went with the GTI over a WRX because aside from performance, I also wanted an understated exterior and some luxury inside. Chip it for $500 and youre over 200HP at the flyhweel. Seriously, even non- performance oriented people should do this. Air filter, turbo back exhaust, dv valve, inlet pipe, maybe some intercooler piping...about $2K installed for all of the above. Shocks+Springs for about $750 installed will satisfy most. Bilstein Sport/H&R Sport keep a near stock comfort level. A clutch and limited slip (awesome upgrade) for about $2K installed. Audi TT front brake upgrade (same as off the 337 model) for $550 installed.

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  GTI IS A SICK CAR. - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By Super Steve - May 29 - 10:00 am

  This is a beautiful car. After driving around in an 84 caprice classic for a while, you really appreciate the nuances put into the GTI; great handling, quick acceleration, amazing fuel effeciency... its a complete chic magnet. Glad I didnt get the 337 edition, 18" rims would get eaten up in 6 months w/ all the potholes in Jersey. And Im glad I wasnt a sucker to spend an extra $2000 on special badging and an inch lower suspension. I gladly took that money and put on a new exhaust & ECU so my car has 240 HP, and flies by any stock 337 on the road. Do yourself a favor and take one for a testdrive. Its worth it.

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  GTI in the true poket rocket - 2005 Volkswagen GTI
  By Serge - May 27 - 9:53 pm

  The car is very fun to drive one the autocross track as well as on the street. It has plenty of torque for the car this size, it is easy to modify, and it looks like a true sport compact.