2007 Volkswagen GTI Review | Buyer Guide
GTI Puts Fun in a Practical Package
When it arrived here 23 years ago, the Volkswagen GTI was the proverbial “wolf in sheep’s clothing.” It delivered stellar performance, yet looked like an ordinary VW. The fifth generation GTI that is here now continues the tradition of providing stellar performance, but it is not quite as innocuous. Although the GTI is still based on the Golf model—now called the Rabbit again in the U.S.— it is distinctively styled with a black honeycomb grille, trimmed in red, and huge alloy wheels that are hard to miss.
When the latest generation GTI was introduced last year, it came only as a three-door hatchback. Now for 2007, a five-door version has become available, which provides much better access to the backseat.
The interior on both models is done in low luster gray from head to tow, and would look somber except for a sprinkling of brushed silver trim and the plaid cloth inserts in the seats. (The plaid motif, by the way, is a throwback to early GTIs.) The seats, which are also available in gray leather, are well bolstered for vigorous driving. However, those broad of beam might find them confining.
The manually operated front seats have plenty of travel for the long-legged, and adjust up and down. The steering wheel telescopes, as well as tilts, so that a tall driver can have a good driving position. Furthermore, there are lumbar adjusts on both front seats to enhance comfort. Backseat passengers don’t have it bad either—they get a decent amount of head-and legroom. As for storage space, there’s 15 cu-ft of cargo area in the rear. This space more than doubles when the rear seat is folded down.
Under the hood, Volkswagen installs its feisty 2.0-liter turbo to propel the GTI. This engine, which is used extensively by VW and Audi, is a little jewel. It cranks out 200 horsepower, and is exceptionally strong and refined. It is mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission. However, for an extra $1075, you can order VW’s Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automatic.
The DSG has six-speeds, and uses a twin-clutch mechanism to provide lightning-quick shifts. (It is actually faster to 60 than the manual.) In everyday driving, it functions as a normal automatic. However, slide the shifter into the “Sport” mode, and you’re ready to take on your favorite winding road. The DSG shifts at higher revs to get the most out of the turbo engine, and downshifts automatically to keep the revs above 3000 rpm. Furthermore, the driver can manually shift gears by pressing paddles on the steering wheel.
The GTI will put a smile on your face whenever you’re negotiating a twisty back road. Volkswagen lowered the suspension on the ‘07 model to minimize body-roll during hard cornering. The steering, which is both quick and taut, makes it easy to handle tight turns, and the optional 18-inch wheels, with performance tires, provide plenty of grip. Yet, the ride is reasonably compliant.
The GTI is a nice combination of the sporty and the practical. Its starting price is a reasonable $23,230. However, my fully loaded test car, with the DSG, the navigation system, and a luxury package that included leather, had a bottom line of $30,365.
Snapshot Review
Strong Powertrain
Sporty Handling
Everyday Practicality
Pricey with Options
Specifications
Base Price $23,230
Engine 2.0-ltr, turbo, 4-cyl
Horsepower 200
Transmission 6-sp, DSG, auto
Brakes disc, ABS
Gas Mileage 25-31 mpg
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