2007 Volkswagen GTI [ 2009 , 2008 ]
Volkswagen GTI
Overall Score - 8.6 (Very Good)
The GTI delivers class-leading high performance, handling, and braking, with a well-designed interior and hatchback utility. However, the exterior design is somewhat controversial and VW reliability remains a concern. If you're in the market for an upscale small car, you should also consider the Audi A3 and Acura TSX.
The 2007 Volkswagen GTI offers exceptional performance, a versatile hatchback design, and a long list of safety features. Our own U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman says, "Usually you give something up for a sporty ride, or you pay a lot to have it all. But the GTI impresses with moxie and manners both," and Kelley Blue Book adds, "Thanks to the GTI's clever hatchback design, drivers can enjoy true German-engineered performance without having to sacrifice comfort for four people or a roomy cargo hold."
The exterior of the GTI is seen by some as modern and sporty, while others feel the design is not well-balanced. In fact, MSN even calls it "ungainly" and "chunky." On the other hand, the interior is almost universally seen as well-designed, comfortable, and of very high quality when compared with peers. The Kansas City Star goes so far as to describe the fit, finish, and materials as "among the best in the class."
Car and Driver picked the 2007 GTI as one of the Best Cars in 2007. The GTI comes with a 2.0-liter, turbocharged in-line four-cylinder engine. A manual six-speed transmission is standard, though a highly regarded DSG automatic can be added. CNET reports, "Without many of the options our test car came loaded with, the 2007 Volkswagen GTI represents a very sporty car for a great price." Velocity Journal calls the GTI a "competent car" and finds it "has a very solid, refined and upscale feel that justifies its relatively high price tag." Still, IntelliChoice only gives the base model GTI a value rating of "Average" for its predicted five-year cost of ownership compared to other vehicles in its class.
GTI Performance - 8.6 (Very Good)
Reviewers are in almost universal agreement that the 2007 Volkswagen GTI is an impressive performer. According to Cars.com, the 200-horsepower in-line four is "a great, great engine" that delivers "a great driving experience." continue
GTI Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
The GTI is available both as a two-door and a four-door model, and while both versions are generally seen as striking and sporty, the "new design has somewhat polarized VW diehards," according to BusinessWeek. continue
GTI Interior - 8.4 (Very Good)
The interior of the 2007 GTI is comfortable and inviting, with room for five, and wins very broad praise from most reviewers. Kelley Blue Book writes, "The interior of the GTI is crafted with a level of materials and build quality that outclasses some very good competition." continue
GTI Safety - 9.1 (Excellent)
Reviewers' consensus is that the GTI is very competitive for its class with regards to safety. Cars.com points out, "While the rest of the auto industry is just getting around to including ergonomic/safety features ... Volkswagens have had them for years." continue
GTI Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Volkswagen GTI reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Volkswagen provides basic warranty coverage for four years or 50,000 miles. continue
