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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  Great car - 2001 Volkswagen GTI
  By acmeretro - February 25 - 10:00 am

  In the 18 months Ive had it, Its a fun car to drive. I have the 15" wheels I would suggest the the 16" or the 17". Very smooth and quiet for such a small car. No real problems yet other than a dome light switch. With the 1.8T 5 speed was disapointed with the mileage at first 26-27 city but has picked up to 30+ city after 15,000 miles.

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  VW GTI - 2002 - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By NC Larry - February 25 - 10:00 am

  A fun, fun car that is practical at the same time.

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  Fun and Practical - 2007 Volkswagen GTI
  By ECONROY - February 12 - 9:50 pm

  You dont see a bunch of these on the road, probably because the price is above others in this class. But for those who enjoy driving and want the utility of a hatchback and a small car that zips in and out of tight spaces, this car fills the bill and then some. My wife says it has "scootability". Ignore stats on power and weight. This 200 HP turbo MOVES this car and you feel it. We got package #2 with leather in tornado red. Yesterday we got a Pioneer AVIC- Z2 with nav and music hard drive installed and component speakers. For under $30,000 weve put together a car my wife and I hate to get out of.

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  Golf - 2000 Volkswagen GTI
  By dk1706 - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I only had the car for a few days and I love the way it handles.

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  Nice GTI - 2002 Volkswagen GTI
  By Tots - January 27 - 10:00 am

  I have now 21000 miles on the car and I have had no major problems with the car. For 2002 there is a recall for wiring in the ABS system. What was scary is the window regulators. I had one glass fall into the door. I took it to the dealership and it was fixed with an updated kit free of charge and they went ahead and did it on the passengers side. All that happened within the first 6 months of owning the car. I havent done anything to it since. The car is working great. Tires are stock michelin and are at half of their thread life. The only hard part about driving the car is keeping it under 60mph.

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  German feel and performance on a budget - 2007 Volkswagen GTI
  By glm - January 23 - 12:10 pm

  Have had several Hondas, this is much more car for less money. Having read a few of these other reviews I guess that experiences vary, but Ive had exactly 0 problems with this car after 3 1/2 years of "spirited" driving. Nothing. Nada. Oil changes, regular maintenance, and thats it. I will say that the handling is a bit disappointing, feeling a bit top heavy and with a bunch of understeer. The DSG is less amusing than I thought and its back to a stick next time around. But, overall, great motor, good all around driver. Took it from upstate NY to Outer Banks and comfortable all the way. A set of Blizzaks and snow is no issue. Finally I agree with Consumer Reports.

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  More Fun Every Day - 2003 Volkswagen GTI
  By selkior - January 21 - 2:00 am

  Driving fun at a reasonable price. Why waste all those dollars on BMWs? I used to have a 2001 GTI and the handling is much improved on the 2003 GTI. Plenty power available at all times through buttery six-speed. VWs famous well-appointed interiors are for real! All the critical safety features are included (ABS, traction control, airbags all around, side impact protection). I watched one get t-boned by a cherokee and the passengers walked away...

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  You wont regret it... - 2010 Volkswagen GTI
  By GTIShawn - January 17 - 3:20 am

  If you are in the market for a fun to drive, practical vehicle that is built well and even has a distinct air of luxury about it, this is the perfect car. The DSG is not the silver bullet it is sometimes made out to be, but it is quite excellent. Having a transmission that performs at the level this performs at is certainly rare for a car in this price range. I expected it to be fun, and fast, and well made, but I did not expect it to ride as smoothly and confidently as it does. This is a car that comes as close to doing it all as you can find at this price point.

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  Tons O Fun - 2004 Volkswagen GTI
  By V-DUB - January 15 - 2:00 am

  I just picked up a Reflex Silver/Black Cloth Interior, 17" wheels, Luxury Package, Cold Weather Package--The Lux Package & Cold Weather Package were a bonus as they could not locate a GTI with black cloth and 17" wheels. Wow! What a Car. Handles like a dream. Great on gas. Super cool European Styling. A real value. Fun to drive, distinctive looking. And my transaction with Attatamian VW/ Honda was the best by far on any new car purchase. I have had 5 new car purchases in the last 10 years. Ask for Joe Abernathy--Great guy. Hell get you what you want, at a reasonable price.

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  Best Car Ive Had - 2000 Volkswagen GTI
  By Julie - January 13 - 3:53 pm

  I LOVE this car. If the new GTI offered 6-cyl., Id get a brand new one. This car is so fast and so affordable. It has never left me on the side of the road, nor has it ever required ANY major repairs. I only have regular maintenance: oil, tire rot., wipers, tires, etc. I got a K&N air filter and its even faster. I LOVE IT!