The latest in a long line of German-engineered GTIs dating back more than three decades, to the days of the early Rabbit versions, the 2007 Volkswagen GTI is as fast as it looks -- and it looks mighty fast, with its racing-oriented front end design, red-striped grille, angled headlights, dashing roof line, horseshoe-patterned alloy wheels, and tricked-out interior.
Power comes in the form of a turbocharged, direct-fuel-injected, intercooled, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces a respectable 200 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission, with a great-looking sports shifter, is standard, while a six-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission, with a special gate for manual shifting, is optional.
For 2007, the GTI is available in both two-door (coupe) and four-door (sedan) versions, with a lengthy list of standard features including air conditioning, power windows, remote power door locks, power exterior mirrors, dual front and side airbags, a sport steering wheel, six-way adjustable sports seats, a rear lip spoiler, and a 10-speaker AM/FM satellite-ready stereo system with an in-dash CD changer and steering-wheel-mounted radio controls.
Other interior features include a three-spoke racing-inspired leather-wrapped steering wheel, alloy pedals, blue-glow instrument gauges, and extra grab handles (for use in those tight corners). Anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control are also part of the package.
So how good is the 2007 Volkwagen GTI? Automobile Magazine designated the GTI its Automobile of the Year, and drivers praised its handling, performance, comfort, and safety features.