Arising out of the performance wasteland that was the early 1980s, the original GTI was an unexpected savior for hard-core driving enthusiasts desperately searching for something — anything — that could quicken their pulses without simultaneously draining their wallets. With just 90 horsepower, it didn't have the recipe for performance that most American drivers were used to. But with only 1,850 pounds to lug around, it provided the kind of performance that anyone could appreciate. It single-handedly created a whole new segment of performance-oriented hatchbacks, dubbed "hot hatches," and the performance world hasn't been the same since.
Twenty years and three generations later, the GTI is still going strong, but unlike the original, it's more than just a stripped-down econocar. There's twice the horsepower on tap thanks to a turbocharged, four-cylinder engine, and its equipment levels, both inside and out, make that first '83 look like a Yugo. While most performance icons tend to slip into mediocrity the longer they survive, the GTI is as good as it's ever been in the eyes of many enthusiasts. And it's for those die-hard fans of the GTI that the 20th anniversary edition was built.
Limited to just 4,000 total units, this commemorative-edition GTI features a host of unique features that add a hint of nostalgia while at the same time bolstering the performance of what is already a bona fide thrill ride. Although some hard-core enthusiasts might consider it nothing more than a touch-up job, we found plenty to like about this tribute to a legend.
Nimble handling was a hallmark of the original, so it's not surprising that this modern-day GTI received a few equipment upgrades to increase its ability to stay glued to the pavement. A revised sport suspension lowers the car an inch or so while 18-inch wheels and tires further contribute to its hunkered-down appearance. The bright red brake calipers that peek out from behind the 15-spoke wheels grab onto vented discs that are slightly larger than stock as well. The result is a custom or "tuned" look with the benefit of extensive factory testing to make sure everything works correctly.
And work it does as this GTI delivers plenty of road-hugging grip without simultaneously roughing up your backside in the process. Anyone who's familiar with the handling of the fourth-generation GTI will recognize that even this souped-up version still plows its front end into fast corners, but keep the car properly balanced and there's more than enough grip to keep you grinning. Couple that with precise steering and overly competent brakes and you've got yourself a thoroughly enjoyable canyon carver. Is it the flickable featherweight that the original was? Not quite, but if you're that interested in getting that early-'80s feel there are plenty of used ones out there in the classifieds.
No such complaints could be lodged against the '03's drivetrain as it couples a silky-smooth, turbocharged four-cylinder to a standard six-speed manual transmission. With 180 hp and 173 pound-feet of torque, there's plenty of pull no matter how fast you're going. Turbo lag makes the GTI feel a bit soft off the line. But once it gets going, the 1.8-liter engine delivers a surprisingly broad band of torque and does so in a refined manner that encourages runs to the redline.
Working through the gears is made all the more enjoyable by the six-speed shifter that slides through the gates with only minimal effort. Combined with the easy-to-actuate clutch and torque-rich engine, the GTI is great for scampering around town on weekend errands. As capable as it is in the turns, the GTI's suspension manages to remain compliant enough to soak up bumpy city streets without much fuss. Freeway runs are even more relaxed as the engine remains muted while wind and road noise is barely noticeable.
Further contributing to the GTI's comfortable demeanor is the sharply detailed interior that features numerous upgrades over the standard model. Heavily bolstered Recaro bucket seats provide firm support in every direction while a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel gives you plenty of grip when you're running hard. Brushed metal accents surround the climate and radio controls and the gauges glisten with bright metal trim as well. Additional metallic trim covers the pedals, armrests and door sills.
It all adds up to an interior with a premium look and feel that's worlds apart from the GTIs of yesteryear. As dressed up as it is, however, the practicality remains. There's plenty of legroom for tall drivers while a tilt and telescoping steering wheel helps to secure a perfect fit. Even those banished to the backseats will find them reasonably comfortable for short trips, and when you pop the hatch there's more cargo room than most midsize sedans.
So while it may wear the retro badges of its progenitor, this modern-day interpretation of the GTI formula is a little different than before. Today's car is a more complete package that attempts to offer more than just fun on the cheap. Between the incredibly smooth engine, slick six-speed shifter and well-tuned suspension, there's not much to complain about when it comes to performance. Same goes for the interior as there is little room for improvement whether you're talking about seat comfort, design simplicity or build quality.
It all adds up to a car that's nearly as fun to drive as the original with few of the past compromises. True GTI fans might not like its excess weight and shiny trim, but there's little doubt that they would enjoy every minute behind the wheel. We sure did.
Twenty years and three generations later, the GTI is still going strong, but unlike the original, it's more than just a stripped-down econocar. There's twice the horsepower on tap thanks to a turbocharged, four-cylinder engine, and its equipment levels, both inside and out, make that first '83 look like a Yugo. While most performance icons tend to slip into mediocrity the longer they survive, the GTI is as good as it's ever been in the eyes of many enthusiasts. And it's for those die-hard fans of the GTI that the 20th anniversary edition was built.
Limited to just 4,000 total units, this commemorative-edition GTI features a host of unique features that add a hint of nostalgia while at the same time bolstering the performance of what is already a bona fide thrill ride. Although some hard-core enthusiasts might consider it nothing more than a touch-up job, we found plenty to like about this tribute to a legend.
Nimble handling was a hallmark of the original, so it's not surprising that this modern-day GTI received a few equipment upgrades to increase its ability to stay glued to the pavement. A revised sport suspension lowers the car an inch or so while 18-inch wheels and tires further contribute to its hunkered-down appearance. The bright red brake calipers that peek out from behind the 15-spoke wheels grab onto vented discs that are slightly larger than stock as well. The result is a custom or "tuned" look with the benefit of extensive factory testing to make sure everything works correctly.
And work it does as this GTI delivers plenty of road-hugging grip without simultaneously roughing up your backside in the process. Anyone who's familiar with the handling of the fourth-generation GTI will recognize that even this souped-up version still plows its front end into fast corners, but keep the car properly balanced and there's more than enough grip to keep you grinning. Couple that with precise steering and overly competent brakes and you've got yourself a thoroughly enjoyable canyon carver. Is it the flickable featherweight that the original was? Not quite, but if you're that interested in getting that early-'80s feel there are plenty of used ones out there in the classifieds.
No such complaints could be lodged against the '03's drivetrain as it couples a silky-smooth, turbocharged four-cylinder to a standard six-speed manual transmission. With 180 hp and 173 pound-feet of torque, there's plenty of pull no matter how fast you're going. Turbo lag makes the GTI feel a bit soft off the line. But once it gets going, the 1.8-liter engine delivers a surprisingly broad band of torque and does so in a refined manner that encourages runs to the redline.
Working through the gears is made all the more enjoyable by the six-speed shifter that slides through the gates with only minimal effort. Combined with the easy-to-actuate clutch and torque-rich engine, the GTI is great for scampering around town on weekend errands. As capable as it is in the turns, the GTI's suspension manages to remain compliant enough to soak up bumpy city streets without much fuss. Freeway runs are even more relaxed as the engine remains muted while wind and road noise is barely noticeable.
Further contributing to the GTI's comfortable demeanor is the sharply detailed interior that features numerous upgrades over the standard model. Heavily bolstered Recaro bucket seats provide firm support in every direction while a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel gives you plenty of grip when you're running hard. Brushed metal accents surround the climate and radio controls and the gauges glisten with bright metal trim as well. Additional metallic trim covers the pedals, armrests and door sills.
It all adds up to an interior with a premium look and feel that's worlds apart from the GTIs of yesteryear. As dressed up as it is, however, the practicality remains. There's plenty of legroom for tall drivers while a tilt and telescoping steering wheel helps to secure a perfect fit. Even those banished to the backseats will find them reasonably comfortable for short trips, and when you pop the hatch there's more cargo room than most midsize sedans.
So while it may wear the retro badges of its progenitor, this modern-day interpretation of the GTI formula is a little different than before. Today's car is a more complete package that attempts to offer more than just fun on the cheap. Between the incredibly smooth engine, slick six-speed shifter and well-tuned suspension, there's not much to complain about when it comes to performance. Same goes for the interior as there is little room for improvement whether you're talking about seat comfort, design simplicity or build quality.
It all adds up to a car that's nearly as fun to drive as the original with few of the past compromises. True GTI fans might not like its excess weight and shiny trim, but there's little doubt that they would enjoy every minute behind the wheel. We sure did.
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