2007 Volkswagen GTI: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A 4-dr model joins the 2007 lineup of Volkswagen's sporty compact hatchbacks. GTIs are performance-oriented versions of VW's Rabbit hatchbacks; both share a basic underskin design with VW's Jetta sedan. GTIs have a 200-hp turbocharged 4-cyl engine and are available in 2-dr and 4-dr form. Transmission choices are a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed sequential manual (SMT). ABS, traction/antiskid control, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags are standard. Rear side airbags are optional on 4-dr models. All GTIs have a sport suspension with a slightly lower ride height for '07. Sunroof, navigation system, and leather upholstery are optional on base models. A newly available Farenheit 2-dr model includes the SMT, sportier suspension tuning, specific trim, and leather upholstery with heated front seats.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 100 inches or longer.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic and Mazda 3. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus, and Mazda 5.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, Nissan Versa, and Pontiac G5.