SPECS / FEATURES
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INTRODUCTION:VIRTUAL TOUR
“The GTI draws its energy from VW's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine turbocharged to boost output to 200 horsepower and to 207 pound-feet of torque, with peak torque holding steady all the way from 1800 to 5000 rpm. The GTI can rocket from a standing start to 60 miles per hour in just 7.0 seconds, says Volkswagen, while delivering an EPA-rated 23/32 mpg with the manual transmission, 25/31 mpg with the Direct Shift Gearbox. This latter bit of F1 wizardry can be left in a fully automatic mode or can be manually manipulated by racing-style paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel.
We delighted in the GTI's quick and precise steering. We appreciated the support and design of the Interlagos plaid seating surfaces and the versatility of its hatchback design.”
FEATURES:
“[F]eatures include air conditioning; well-bolstered, eight-way-adjustable seats with Interlagos plaid cloth inserts; a 40/60 split folding rear seat; blue-tinted glass; xenon high-intensity gas-discharge headlamps with washers; halogen fog lamps; turn signal lights on the exterior rearview mirrors; variable intermittent windshield wipers; a height-adjustable center armrest; cruise control; trip computer; remote unlocking as well as power windows that can be opened or closed with the key fob; aluminum alloy pedals; a 10-speaker audio system with six-CD changer and MP3 player; a tilt and telescoping steering column with audio controls on the steering wheel; plenty of cup holders; carpeted and covered cargo area; and 17-inch summer performance tires on alloy wheels.”
DRIVING IMPRESSION:
“The Volkswagen GTI is fun to drive and that's where it shines. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is responsive and offers a broad plateau of torque. Maximum torque is available from a mere 1800 rpm up to 5000 rpm, so you can putter comfortably around town in fourth gear without having to overwork your right arm searching for the engine's sweet spot as you maneuver in city traffic. While the car operates on regular unleaded, premium fuel is recommended to achieve maximum power levels.
When you want to downshift for curves on mountain roads or to make a pass on a two-lane in the country, the clutch is very light with easy pickup, the shifter has short and sure throws, and the engine spins into gear immediately. On winding pavement, we preferred the six-speed manual, which allowed us to feel truly connected to car and road.”
SUMMARY:
“Volkswagen's latest GTI is neither the least expensive nor flashiest vehicle in its category. Nonetheless, it offers more horsepower and considerably more torque than either the Honda Civic Si or Mini Cooper S. The GTI also offers either its short-throw six-speed manual or state-of-the-art DSG transmission with speed-of-electrons shifting via paddles mounted on the steering wheel. With its subtly Teutonic styling, the GTI may not look like a performance car. But those inside will have no doubt about its dynamic capabilities. They also will enjoy the room, comfort and cargo capacity of its versatile interior, now accessible through four doors. They may even come to like that Interlagos plaid. We like it.”
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