Volkswagen’s Black Beauty: The 2010 GTI

Published December 21, 2009 by John Pardoe

Filed Under: Road Tests

VW has spiced up their line-up in recent years, from the introduction of the EOS a few years ago to the sexy and sleek looking CC last year. For 2010 the GTI gets a face lift and some interior refinement. That would make any critic happy. The front fascias’ devilish grin gives you a hint of what’s to come. While this black beauty is not the most powerful of the hot hatches on the market, it is definitely the most refined.

The responsive 200hp, 2.0 liter turbo is more than adequate, especially mated to the smooth shifting six speed manual gear box. I have not driven the DSG automatic gear box. According to VW specs, the auto is capable of launching the car from 0 to 60MPH in 6.7 seconds, a tenth of a second faster than with the six-speed manual, though I prefer shifting my own gears.

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For a coupe, I found the GTI very roomy and comfortable, even on a long ride. My wife and I made a trip from our home in Maine to Hyannis Port, Ma. We found the funky but cool plaid seats quite comfortable. The handling was great around town and tight corners, while still giving us a relatively comfortable ride. I felt like it was one with the road. We made lane changes and passed other vehicles with ease and grace. At highway speeds the GTI was surprisingly quiet for a 2.0 liter engine.

While zipping down the highway, the 2010 GTI turned some heads. As I mentioned, the front end has the most noticeable changes. The rear end also gets a sleeker look with a wider looking rear end and dual exhaust tips coming to either side of the bumper. This pocket rocket may have a much more subdued look than it’s brethren but to me that makes it more appealing.

Raw power is a little lacking but the overall refined, head turning looks make up for the slightly less powerful engine. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a more powerful engine shoe-horned under the hood, like the 2008 R32. The upside to the smaller engine is the mileage. It’s rated at 21MPG in town and 31 on the highway. During my time with the GTI I averaged about 27MPG.

At about $24,000, the GTI is at a similar price to other sport compacts. There is an Autobahn package available for $2795 that adds a sunroof, partially leather seats, and front sport seats with lumbar support.

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Navigation adds $1750, bringing the possible MSRP to over $28,000 which may make you cringe for a coupe, but go with the four-door GTI, it seems a little better.

The four door model of the GTI also makes for easier access to the back seat. The added doors don’t detract from the bodies beautiful lines.

Overall, the 2010 GTI is a beautiful, more refined version of it’s former self. It will not disappoint GTI lovers in the market for a stylish, well rounded sport compact.