2010 Volkswagen GTI
- 2009 Volkswagen GTI
- Used Volkswagen GTI
Based on analysis of 18 GTI reviews and test drives.
Volkswagen GTI - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Volkswagen GTI ranks 1 out of 6 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 18 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen GTI, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Volkswagen GTI, a performance variant of the VW Golf, offers the most fun per dollar of nearly any car on the market. Its zippy performance and high-quality interior make it a standout within the upscale car class, and a more athletic appearance for 2010 makes it even more appealing.
While the previous GTI polarized some auto critics with its exterior design, the updated 2010 model has already gained favor for its refreshed styling, which includes a new front end and rear fenders. Very little has changed, however, about its mechanics -- and that’s a good thing. Reviewers have always loved the GTI’s sporting character. In addition, updates for 2010 give the GTI an even more upscale interior.
“As far as hot hatches are concerned, none of the competition offers the same mix of refinement, sophistication and driving good times that the GTI does,” says Autoblog. The GTI is a proven winner. In fact, it was picked as one Car and Driver's 10Best in both 2008 and 2009 and is nominated again for 2010.
One of the best things about the GTI is that it's very affordable for an Upscale Small Car. At just under $23,500 for two-door models, it’s the most inexpensive car in its class and arguably the best value. Along with its affordable price, it boasts class-leading fuel economy in its base trim. Its 21/31 mpg rating is topped only by the Audi A3’s new diesel model, which is rated at 30/42 mpg. And the A3 diesel starts at $6,000 more than the GTI. Bottom line: For the money, there’s really no better car on the market if you’re looking for a speedy, upscale and fuel-efficient hatchback.
A more affordable but less upscale option is the Mazdaspeed3. It boasts even more power than the GTI and costs a few hundred dollars less, so it’s a decision of whether raw power or an upscale interior is more important to you. The Mazda offers slightly more cargo room than the VW, but its 18/25 mpg fuel economy rating is dismal in comparison.
The GTI is available in two- and four-door models. Four-door models add about $600 to the cost.
- "GTI offers many laudable standard safety features and some uncommonly upscale conveniences. But options can lift sticker prices to the top of the class. Still, this is a practical hatchback with near premium-compact build quality and serious driving-enthusiast appeal." -- Consumer Guide
- "The 2010 Volkswagen GTI won't be cheap, but it's a very civilized and very capable sport compact that will be both easy and rewarding to live with.” -- Edmunds
- "The 2010 VW GTI is the best front-wheel-drive hot hatchback on the market. Period. When you look at the whole picture -- price, performance, and the all-important fun-to-drive factor -- the GTI is about as good as it gets." -- About.com
- "Volkswagen's GTI is magic. What else do you call a diminutive hatchback that can shame supercars? -- Automobile Magazine
- “With a competitive starting price and base models that come very well equipped, what might be the most surprising aspect of the 2010 GTI is that it offers something German cars aren't usually known for -- value." -- AutoGuide.com
GTI Performance - 8.9 (Very Good)
The Volkswagen GTI's driving experience is impressive, especially for such an affordable vehicle. Test drivers generally credit the turbocharged powertrain for the hatchback's high fun-to-drive index. Automobile Magazine says, "The latest version of VW's iconic hot bunny [Volkswagen’s Golf/Rabbit hatchback] may offer only 200 horses under the hood, but a fantastically usable, abusable, and forgiving chassis makes the best of each and every one of them." The GTI also boasts precise brakes, agile handling and the best base fuel economy in its class. Read More
GTI Exterior - NA
The 2010 Volkswagen GTI has an attention-grabbing style that has been updated for this year. Reviewers give it a warm reception and compliment the more angular headlights and athletic appearance. “Vertical fog lights, honeycomb grille elements, and two chrome exhaust pipes make the GTI look more menacing than the super-clean regular Golf,” says Car and Driver. Read More
GTI Interior - 9.1 (Excellent)
Reviewers love the VW GTI's polished materials and comfortable front row. For 2010, the cabin gets an updated steering wheel, new climate controls and even a touch-screen interface for the stereo. "This German hot rod might cost more than its Japanese rivals, but inside it's easy to see why,” writes Edmunds. “The GTI feels like a luxury good, not trashy, disposable fashion." Writers especially praise the GTI's cargo area, which is large and versatile, especially for such a sporty car. Read More
GTI Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2010 four-door GTI receives competitive crash test scores and provides plenty of standard safety equipment for its affordable price. Read More
GTI Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2010 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). The 2010 Volkswagen GTI has a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
