There's more than enough room up front, while two adults could live in the back... provided that they can access the rear seats. Remember, the GTI Fahrenheit is a 2-door coupe like its predecessor. From the outside, it borrows many lines from the current Rabbit, while sporting an aggressive-looking, blacked-out grille that contrasts with the bright orange bodywork. The Fahrenheit model also adds 18-inch Charleston alloys and a rear spoiler.
Let the real fun begin
The challenge in creating the new GTI was not so much about styling as it was about driving dynamics. And from the latter standpoint, VW engineers achieved quite a feat. Granted, they could rely on a solid, unquestionably efficient powerplant: the 2.0L turbo engine of the Jetta GLI.
Producing 200 fiery horsepower, this mill teams up with a DSG automatic gearbox (no manual is available with the Fahrenheit) which offers flawlessly quick shifts. In terms of handling, the German automaker slightly tuned the suspension to allow better road grip and a sportier, Euro-flavored driving experience. As a matter of fact, it's the only technical difference between the traditional GTI and the Fahrenheit limited edition (of which there were only 150 units available to Canadians).
This car handles exceptionally well; part of the credit also goes to the feedback provided by the amazingly responsive power steering. Unfortunately, the brakes are far from being on par with the overall performance of the GTI. While this hot hatch accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in barely 6.7 seconds, nearly 40 meters are necessary to stop from 100 to 0 km/h. One would expect a much shorter braking distance with a so-called performance car.
Reason and passion
Buying a GTI has always been a matter of passion. You never forget the pleasure you had while driving it; those who've tried it several years ago still have fond memories of their experience. That being said, the new generation of the GTI adds a bit of reason to the equation. More comfortable and easier to live with on a daily basis, it proves an exciting getaway car as well as a practical tool.
I have to admit that the unique color of the Fahrenheit does not appeal to all. However, the modified suspension and larger wheels are enough reasons to pay a closer look at the GTI... if you like getting noticed and if you can afford it, of course.
Proven, powerful engine
Precise, responsive steering
Well-calibrated suspension
Flashy color
Complicated access to the rear seats
High price
Sub-par brakes
photo:Marc Bouchard
Let the real fun begin
The challenge in creating the new GTI was not so much about styling as it was about driving dynamics. And from the latter standpoint, VW engineers achieved quite a feat. Granted, they could rely on a solid, unquestionably efficient powerplant: the 2.0L turbo engine of the Jetta GLI.
 |
| While comfort has been greatly enhanced, performance is still what this car is about. |
Producing 200 fiery horsepower, this mill teams up with a DSG automatic gearbox (no manual is available with the Fahrenheit) which offers flawlessly quick shifts. In terms of handling, the German automaker slightly tuned the suspension to allow better road grip and a sportier, Euro-flavored driving experience. As a matter of fact, it's the only technical difference between the traditional GTI and the Fahrenheit limited edition (of which there were only 150 units available to Canadians).
This car handles exceptionally well; part of the credit also goes to the feedback provided by the amazingly responsive power steering. Unfortunately, the brakes are far from being on par with the overall performance of the GTI. While this hot hatch accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in barely 6.7 seconds, nearly 40 meters are necessary to stop from 100 to 0 km/h. One would expect a much shorter braking distance with a so-called performance car.
Reason and passion
Buying a GTI has always been a matter of passion. You never forget the pleasure you had while driving it; those who've tried it several years ago still have fond memories of their experience. That being said, the new generation of the GTI adds a bit of reason to the equation. More comfortable and easier to live with on a daily basis, it proves an exciting getaway car as well as a practical tool.
I have to admit that the unique color of the Fahrenheit does not appeal to all. However, the modified suspension and larger wheels are enough reasons to pay a closer look at the GTI... if you like getting noticed and if you can afford it, of course.
 |
Precise, responsive steering
Well-calibrated suspension
 |
Flashy color
Complicated access to the rear seats
 |
High price
Sub-par brakes
photo:Marc Bouchard
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