VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

The 2011 Volkswagen GTI ranks 1 out of 10 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 20 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen GTI, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.


With few changes for 2011, the Volkswagen GTI, a performance variant of the VW Golf, maintains its reputation as a car with zippy performance and a ridiculously nice interior. It's such a great value that we named it the 2011 Best Upscale Compact Car for the Money.



In 2010, Volkswagen overhauled the GTI, adding fresh changes that included chrome exhaust pipes, angular headlights and an upscale interior that rivals Audi. Edmunds  says that “The VW GTI's interior is quite simply, the best in its class. It's so nice, in fact, that it could be mistaken for a cabin from sister company Audi, save for the plaid fabric seats.” Its interior and exterior receive minor updates for 2011. All trims have Bluetooth technology, a nicer steering wheel and 18” alloy wheels. VW also added classier features to the premium packages.

Volkswagen hasn’t touched the mechanics -- and that’s a good thing because the VW GTI is one of the best driving sporty hatchbacks on the market. The GTI, however, isn’t best in class. But unless consumers plan on drag racing, the GTI is perfect for driving-enthusiasts.


Overall, the VW GTI is ideal for shoppers with a little more to spend who want to invest small car that conserves gas, can hold your stuff when necessary and doesn’t sacrifice sporty performance. The VW GTI costs a bit more than last year’s model. It starts at about $23,500 for the two-door and $24,300 for the four-door. Reviewers say this is a great price for what you get, but the GTI’s price tag quickly approaches $30,000 with optional features.


Other Cars to Consider


If you love to drive, test the BMW 1-Series. It costs almost $6,000 more than the VW GTI and gets about 3 miles per gallon less in the city and on the highway, but consumers who prioritize a powerful engine, smooth transmission, precise cornering and confident braking won’t feel like they’re wasting money. As for the interior, it’s nice, but the GTI has a nicer one.

The Audi A3 is a mixture of the BMW 1-Series's performance and Volkswagen GTI’s interior. The A3 starts at $27,200 -- $1,950 less than the BMW 1-Series and $3,510 more than the VWGTI. One area where the A3 outshines its competition is its athletic-looking and attention-grabbing exterior. If you want the best of both worlds -- performance, appearance and interior quality -- and can pay more, the Audi A3 is the ideal option.