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The 2010 Volkswagen GTI has been redesigned to be more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient, but just as powerful and fun to drive as earlier models. And while the previous GTI polarized some auto critics with its exterior design, this new model has already gained favor for its more athletic appearance that includes a new front valence, rocker sills and rear fenders. 

What has changed very little, however, is its mechanics and interior. To most though, this is just as it should be. Edmunds Inside Line writes, "This German hot rod might cost more than its Japanese rivals, but inside it's easy to see why. The GTI feels like a luxury good, not trashy, disposable fashion." The GTI's 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injected engine does get a 10 horsepower boost for 2010. "That's not class-leading, but smooth power delivery in a well-tuned package has made the GTI one of our favorites for years," Car and Driver says. "It even made its third consecutive appearance on our 10Best list in 2009, despite the imminent model changeover." 

When the redesigned GTI becomes available this fall it will sell with two or four doors. The 2010 GTI's engine is a four-cylinder turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 210 horsepower and is matched with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. 

What the Auto Press Says 

The Volkswagen GTI is still an auto-press darling with its modified exterior and marginally boosted powertrain. While the GTI's design received mixed reviews in its last generation, most praise the 2010 model's design and its subtle changes. The hatchback's turbocharged engine continues to thrill. 

Here is what the press has to say about the coming 2010 VW GTI: 

• "Everyone's favorite hyper-hatch returns with some spiffy new duds. Where the Mark V GTI was bland and generally a rolling bar of soap, the Mark VI gets enough sharp edges and air-shaping blades to have an 'ole fashioned knife fight with the nearest Honda to give it any guff." -- Jalopnik
• "Volkswagen doesn't do revolution. If you're familiar with the six generation of the GTI ... you'll instantly recognize the latest incarnation. There are no surprises here, just a convincing overhaul of the latest Golf Mk 6 platform with the front valence, rocker sills and rear fenders made more pronounced to visually lower the car's appearance." -- Edmunds Inside Line
• "Under the hood, the latest edition of the corporate 2.0L TFSI four cylinder cranking out 210 hp and a reasonably healthy 207 lb-ft of torque at just 1,800 rpm. The electronically controlled limited-slip XDS differential will help guide that torque to the wheel with the most grip and hopefully manage torque steer as well." -- Autoblog
• "While U.S. models will likely stay governed at 130 mph, the GTI is capable of speeds up to 149 mph. We expect 0-60 times in the mid-sixes. Buyers will be able to choose between a six-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission that blips the throttle ever so sweetly on downshifts." -- Car and Driver

Key Details 

Notwithstanding its new exterior and boosted engine, the 2010 VW GTI has much of the same features as the last generation. Standard fare should include heated front seats and a six-disc in-dash CD player with MP3 capability. Volkswagen's Autobahn Package will add leather seats and a sunroof. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, traction control and an anti-skid system, as well as front, rear side and curtain side airbags. 

Stay tuned for more details on the 2010 Volkswagen GTI.