Name: 2021 Volkswagen GTI
Brand: Volkswagen

Volkswagen GTI

RECALL ALERT: There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

There is 1 recall on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

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2000

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2023

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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2021 Sports cars 4/5-seat Ratings

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Model History

2022-

Current Generation

The redesigned 2022 Volkswagen GTI builds on the long-running tradition of elevating a mild hatchback into a fun-to-drive, yet sophisticated, practical alternative to sports coupes. The GTI's improvements aim to sharpen the handling, up the power and upgrade connectivity and infotainment. The new GTI is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Power has increased to 241 horsepower. The GTI comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, with the stick topped by a golf ball knob. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is optional. The interior comes with a large 10-inch infotainment screen, and it can be dressed with plaid upholstery-a nice historic nod to the original GTI. FCW, AEB, BSW, and RCTW are standard.

2015-2021

2015 Redesign Year

The GTI is one of the most practical choices among sporty cars. It's quiet, civilized and doesn't wear you out on long drives. The interior is very well finished, with luxurious materials, comfortably supportive seats and a comprehensive, yet easy-to-use infotainment system. The basic S model gives you a lot of bang for the buck. It's well equipped and doesn't lack for essential features. The only practical reason we'd opt for a more expensive version is to get the HID headlights, as they perform much better than the standard halogens. You can get the better lights on an S model, but only with an automatic. Updates for 2016 included optional forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot warning, all of which became standard in 2020.

2010-2014

2010 Redesign Year

This redesign of the GTI brought modest changes. The four-cylinder Golf R adds more power and all-wheel-drive. The GTI excels at combining everyday practicality with being fun-to-drive. Agile handling, gutsy acceleration and a satisfying sound come with comfort and refinement. Remarkably, the GTI retains most of the civilized demeanor of other Golf models, making it suitable for everyday driving, while still bringing a smile to the face of a driving enthusiast. The hatchback adds versatility. Fit and finish are very good. The seats are supportive and sporty, yet comfortable. Stability control, traction control, antilock brakes and brake assist are standard equipment.

2006-2009

2006 Redesign Year

The GTI is a sporty version of the Golf. Since 1999, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine has powered most GTI models. The sporty VW hatchback is a credible alternative to a sports sedan, with capable handling, a relatively comfortable ride, a well-crafted interior and a surprisingly roomy back seat. Special limited-production R32 versions have a V6 and all-wheel-drive. These one-year-specials appeared in 2004 and again in 2008. A four-door version of the GTI became available in 2007.

1987-2005

1987 Redesign Year

The Golf exudes a feeling of precision and solidity unusual for a small car. It is available in 3- and 5-door hatchback body styles and GTI trim line marketed as a sporty alternative to standard Golfs. A responsive four cylinder provided base power, but a stronger V6 was available in top GTI models. The Golf was redesigned for 1999, and became quieter and more comfortable, with a higher-quality interior. A turbocharged four-cylinder engine was introduced a year later. The R32, a V6-powered AWD model, arrived for 2004.

Volkswagen GTI

2021 Sports cars & Convertibles Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Volkswagen vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Volkswagen vs. Other New Car Brands

Volkswagen vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2021 Sports cars 4/5-seat Ratings