2010 Volkswagen GTI Review

Britney sings “Oops!... I did it again”. Well, that was the anthem of the Wolfsburg engineers when they created the sixth generation of the mythical GTI.

The arrival of the 2010 version takes what we loved about the old models and pushes it even further. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)

Volkswagen has, once again, managed the tour de force of developing one of the most enjoyable cars to drive for an entirely reasonable price. Like its fuel-efficient counterpart, the Golf, the GTI represents a slow evolution of the previous generations. As is the tradition, the GTI is still eminently recognizable, especially with the red piping running the length of the grille, typical of the car since 1974.

Turning a sports car into a family hauler
The GTI’s mission was always a simple one. Offer great performance in a practical format at a price that’s easily digestible for a large number of people. After all, it’s still a people’s car – but for people who like to drive.

The brand’s followers won’t be surprised by the new dash. The finish is above reproach, in fact we’re very close to Audi standards in terms of fit and ergonomics.

The sense of soberness is carried on with a none-too-original style, as well as the omnipresent black draping the entire cabin. The chrome accents and the possibility of fitting plaid seats à la 1970s liven things up somewhat.

The signature detailing is carried over onto the steering wheel, festooned with numerous intuitive commands. The on-board computer provides a decent amount of information without overloading the screen. To limit the number of controls, Volkswagen has introduced multifunction air conditioner dials that control the temperature of both seats and cabin.

Everything was designed with the utmost driving pleasure in mind. The Recaro seats offer exemplary support and are entirely adjustable. It’s literally impossible not to find a comfortable position. The flat-base sport steering wheel offers a good grip and has a nice diameter. The driving position has been configured for maximum driving enjoyment.

On top of featuring a high roof and consequently decent headroom, the cabin is surprisingly spacious. The size of the trunk isn’t the GTI’s main asset, but this won’t surprise anyone as the rear of the car is cut short and ends in a hatch. This is technically a shortcoming you accept when you decide to purchase a GTI.

The finish is above reproach, in fact we’re very close to Audi standards. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)