Volkswagen GTI

I have never been much of a fan for hatchbacks but the new generation of the Volkswagen GTI is definitely an exception. It's a sporty little 3 or 5 door hatchback with great fuel economy. This car is the highest level in the Golf family.

The 2011 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2 door
Image taken from GlobalMotors.net

Visual:
Again, I don't really like hatchbacks and the back of the GTI looks chubby like a mini van. But the rear still looks good with the dual exhaust separated between the diffuser. The slightly redesigned front end looks great. The red lines on the front really gives a good highlight and the fascia is really distinct from any other cars out there (except for the ones in the Golf family of course). The car has option 18" wheels with summer tires which should have been a standard feature because they flow just right with the car. The wheels the GTI comes with look unappealing.


                                                                                

Rear of the Golf GTI
Taken from ModPark.com

 Performance:
As I have mentioned, it's a car with a bit of sportiness and fuel efficiency, so it comes with a turbocharged 2.0 liter engine which gives 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. 0 to 60 mph takes only 6.9 seconds. The optional transmission is the same as before, a super quick 6 speed automatic DSG gearbox costing an additional $1100 or a simple 6 speed manual. Normally, standard gearboxes are more fuel efficient compared to automatics, but the automatic does 24/32 MPG while the manual does 21/31 MPG. Over a period of time, the extra cost in gas will add up to the price of the automatic.

Interior:

Interior of the Golf GTI
Image taken from AutomotiveAddicts.com

People that don't know much about cars might think Volkswagen is comparable to a economy car manufacturer like Toyota, but actually, it's quite up there. Manufacturers such as Audi, Bentley, Porsche, Bugatti etc.. are owned by the Volkswagen Auto Group. So, the GTI's interior is just as solid and luxurious. I could not find anything that will rattle or squeak. Everything is mounted on solidly. The dash is a soft rubber and not plastic and you get leather like a typical luxury vehicle.

This car is another addition to my wish list. It actually costs a bit more than the Hyundai Genesis Coupe but with the materials and quality of the build, it is certainly worth it with a better resale value, too.