2007 Volkswagen GTI Review
The GTI is a sporty hatchback variant of the Volkswagen Golf now sold as the Volkswagen Rabbit. In and out of production since the 1970s, the GTI is a favorite of enthusiasts from around the world. The fourth generation was introduced in 2002, and was a letdown for fans. A special, limited edition 20th anniversary model was produced in 2003. However, the fourth generation was replaced suddenly in the middle of 2006. The new GTI has been seen as a return to form, and lauded by enthusiasts and the press. It has been named Automobile Magazine’s “2007 Automobile of the Year.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
Fans of the Volkswagen GTI shouldn’t hesitate to pick up the Mk V. It’s the best GTI to be released in years. Volkswagen should be commended for breathing new life into an old favorite. For non-enthusiasts, the GTI makes a great all-around vehicle, combining a zippy 200-hp engine with the practicality of a hatchback. Unfortunately, some initial reliability problems mean that unless you’re a diehard VW fan, you might want to wait until the bugs have been worked out.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the GTI 2 stars for overall mechanical quality. Problems that affected the 1999-2005 Golf include rattling speakers, coolant leaks, stuck clutches, engine noise, hard starting, rough idling, and vehicle noise. It was recalled three times. The current GTI has had issues with inaccurate speed gauges, leaking intake hoses, and separating doors and windows. It has been recalled once in 2006 for failing break lights. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The GTI earned 4 stars in government frontal tests and 5 stars in side tests. IIHS data is not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, and stability control come standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Vast improvement over its predecessor
+ Good warranty
+ Plenty of performance and features for the price
Cons
– Heavy
– Chances are, you’ll need that warranty
– More expensive than similar models
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse GS hatchback costs $2,000 less, but has about 40 less hp than the GTI, without any increase to fuel economy. It only seats four while the GTI seats five and lacks stability control and a CD changer. The Hyundai Tiburon GS hatchback costs over $4,000 less, but has 60 less hp than the GTI, with no increase in gas mileage. It, like the Eclipse, only seats four and lacks stability control and a CD changer. For around the same price, you could buy the sporty and unique MINI Cooper convertible, though you’ll lose nearly 100 hp, and lack many of the GTI’s amenities.
What Others Are Saying:
“The Mk V captures the essence of the original and best GTIs but reinvented for the modern age where customers have different safety and comfort expectations than before. In that context, the GTI really is an excellent little car and arguably one of the best all-rounders on sale in America today.” – The Car Connection
“VW’s top dog, Bernd Pischetsrieder, called the previous GTI a “joke” while the car was still on sale here. This wasn’t humility, it was a promise to the VW faithful that the new GTI would be worth waiting for. VW has kept that promise: the new GTI is not just better than the car it replaces; it’s good enough to be on any smart enthusiast’s short shopping list.” – Automobile Magazine
“The engine doesn’t feel highly-strung at all. Press the throttle, and there is instant torque-on-demand power. There’s no need to rev the engine to redline, but then there’s no reason not to, as it pulls strongly all the way.” – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2007 Volkswagen GTI at the Volkswagen manufacturer web site.
