VW turns out a little powerhouse

New GTI drives like a sports car, yet delivers a comfortable ride

By ROB DOUTHIT

Cox News Service

April 7, 2006

With the 2006 Volkswagen GTI, sports car performance meets compact car practicality, and the two blend most pleasingly.

VW has remade its venerable hatchback, but with nods to its past, all the while maintaining the high quality that has characterized VW's products of the recent past.

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First of all, you'll find that despite its small size, this is a pretty comfortable car. The seats are pleasant, and that pleasantness has staying power for long trips. The engine noise is a little more than you might find in other small-to midsize cars, but it's not at all intrusive.

The suspension is tight enough to really help the car grip the road and bring a smooth ride that you might even liken to what you get with some classy sedans.

Turning ability is crisp and sure.

But the fun thing about this little critter is its speed. Its 0-60 timing of 6.8 seconds is impressive, and that initial power boost that you get when you mash the gas is way cool. Afterward, it maintains speed nicely, and reacceleration is fairly effortless.

That's thanks to the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, which kicks out 200 horsepower and 207 pounds-feet of torque.

The six-speed automatic transmission on the test model brought smooth shifting, and it came with paddle shifters in case you felt the urge to do it yourself. A six-speed manual gearbox also is available.

This GTI shares the platform of VW's Jetta and has the sort of refined touch that's found in VW's Passat.

Power windows and locks are standard, as is an anti-theft alarm system. The center console has a pair of power outlets, which is convenient.

The test model had dual-zone climate control as an option.

In the back seat, headroom and legroom are more than adequate, and the 60/40 split seat is quite comfortable.

Getting access to that rear seat is a little tricky, as you must get used to pulling up on a latch that can be a little temperamental.

For safety's sake, there are airbags aplenty: front, front side and side curtain. There's also an electronic stability program in case things get a little out of control.

The exterior design of the GTI is handsome, with traditional hatchback lines that are given a sporty update.

Gas mileage numbers are good, with the GTI posting EPA figures of 25 mpg-city and 31 highway on the test model. The six-speed manual transmission gets 23 and 32.

This package of performance and quality is surprisingly affordable. The test model had a sticker price of $29,405, which included option Package 2, made up of DVD navigation, Sirius satellite radio and 18-inch sport wheels with performance tires.

This machine offers quality, comfort and a heaping serving of spunkiness.