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| Familiar shape will bring back memories if you've ever owned a GTI before. (Photo: Canadian Auto Press) |
I spent considerable time behind the wheel of the new GTI at the U.S. launch in Atlanta, Georgia. I mention this because I am 6'9” tall, and weigh 275 pounds (124 kilos). At no time did I feel cramped, and had plenty of headroom in the GTI even with the standard glass moonroof. There was even enough room behind my fully rearward driver's seat for someone small in stature to sit comfortably. VW Golf, GTI, and Jetta models have always wowed me with their creative interior packaging. Road manners in the GTI are impeccable, and power comes on in gobs when turbo boost spools up. I drove both the manual and DSG models. For most true enthusiasts, the manual would seem to make sense. But do test drive the DSG, my favorite, as it shifts so smoothly and quickly I didn't miss the manual at all. I was surprised at the number of people during my drive route that stared hard at the car, and obviously knew it was the new GTI. This kind of following all goes back to the original '83 model.
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| Gotta have it! (Photo: Canadian Auto Press) |
When it's time to service your new GTI, you'll be pleased to know that it comes standard with a generous “Carefree Maintenance Program” that includes three years or 60,000 km of no-charge scheduled maintenance. The program includes oil and filter changes, tire rotation, and a host of preventive maintenance checks. GTI's standard vehicle warranties include a 12-year corrosion, three-year/60,000 km limited, and five-year/100,000 km powertrain warranty.
2010 GTI models start at $28,675 for the 3-door and $29,675 for the 5-door. Fully loaded, four door models will come pretty close to $40K. The new GTI fills many roles: mid-life crisis performance machine, sensible family hauler (with a big kick!), and affordable roadway cruiser. It's safe, it's fun, and it's a blast to drive. This new car should give the vintage “Das Auto” talking Beetle you see in VW commercials plenty to talk about.
