After being out of showrooms for a couple of years due to a delayed redesign and labor problems at the carmaker's plant in Mexico, the Volkswagen GTI reappeared in 1995 with a vengence -- and with a new engine. Based on the popular Golf hatchback, the GTI VR6 trim package featured a 2.8-liter double-overhead-cam V6 engine that pumped out 172 horsepower. It was linked to a five-speed manual transmission.

The list of standard equipment for the GTI was beefed up for 1995, and included power windows, power brakes, power steering, power heated mirrors, a power sunroof, heated front seats, air conditioning, dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, alloy wheels, traction control, cruise control, an anti-theft alarm system, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo system.

The GTI's engine received high marks from drivers, who noted that it got great gas mileage for the high-performance it delivered. Many drivers also appreciated the car's handling and storage capability, thanks to its hatchback design. Generally, the GTI got positive marks from many drivers for its reliability, although some noted that their cars often needed repairs, which could be expensive.