You have to be a real car enthusiast to appreciate all the beauty of the 2008 Volkswagen GTI - the Mr. Hyde to the little Rabbit's Dr. Jekyll. But while their looks are similar, the former boasts exceptional driving dynamics.
Of course, not everyone can handle the fiery GTI's mean power and truly sporty character, especially not Sunday drivers. The hype around this car is well deserved; in fact, it won top honors in our Hot Hatch Comparison Test back in July.
Power first
The VW GTI is leading the wave of high-strung pocket rockets that's taking the auto industry by storm. These machines are proof that you can enjoy high levels of performance without having to mortgage your house. Just like its competitors, the GTI is relying primarily on power to lure buyers.
Come on, admit it: the main reason why people are turning to this German superstar is exhilarating, fun-as-hell power. After all, Volkswagen no longer seems to have the same edge over rivals it used to.
One thing's for sure, though: no one will complain about what's underneath the hood. The 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is mated to a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission for spirited accelerations that literally pin you to your seat.
Comfort vs Performance
The GTI comes with a certain prestige, which is why designers incorporated a pair of ultra-premium sport seats. You jump inside them like in a race car and the support they provide is flawless. The long side bolsters do a great job of wrapping your entire backside (something large drivers will have a hard time adjusting to) and holding it in check for a true sporty feel in corners.
As for the ride, it's exactly what driving enthusiasts are looking for. The ultra-firm suspension is wonderfully responsive, sending clear road feedback to the driver through the sharp steering. You can attack any line with no hesitation whatsoever -- as if you were racing on a track.
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| The main reason why people are turning to this German superstar is exhilarating, fun-as-hell power. |
Of course, not everyone can handle the fiery GTI's mean power and truly sporty character, especially not Sunday drivers. The hype around this car is well deserved; in fact, it won top honors in our Hot Hatch Comparison Test back in July.
Power first
The VW GTI is leading the wave of high-strung pocket rockets that's taking the auto industry by storm. These machines are proof that you can enjoy high levels of performance without having to mortgage your house. Just like its competitors, the GTI is relying primarily on power to lure buyers.
Come on, admit it: the main reason why people are turning to this German superstar is exhilarating, fun-as-hell power. After all, Volkswagen no longer seems to have the same edge over rivals it used to.
One thing's for sure, though: no one will complain about what's underneath the hood. The 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is mated to a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission for spirited accelerations that literally pin you to your seat.
Comfort vs Performance
The GTI comes with a certain prestige, which is why designers incorporated a pair of ultra-premium sport seats. You jump inside them like in a race car and the support they provide is flawless. The long side bolsters do a great job of wrapping your entire backside (something large drivers will have a hard time adjusting to) and holding it in check for a true sporty feel in corners.
As for the ride, it's exactly what driving enthusiasts are looking for. The ultra-firm suspension is wonderfully responsive, sending clear road feedback to the driver through the sharp steering. You can attack any line with no hesitation whatsoever -- as if you were racing on a track.
 |
| The 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is mated to a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission. |