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2017
Volkswagen Golf GTI

Starts at:
$24,995
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New 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2.0T 2-Door S Manual
    Starts at
    $24,995
    24 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 4-Door S Manual
    Starts at
    $25,595
    24 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 2-Door S DSG
    Starts at
    $26,095
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 4-Door S DSG
    Starts at
    $26,695
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 4-Door Sport Manual
    Starts at
    $27,995
    24 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 4-Door Sport DSG
    Starts at
    $29,095
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 4-Door SE Manual
    Starts at
    $30,890
    24 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 4-Door SE DSG
    Starts at
    $31,990
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 4-Door Autobahn Manual
    Starts at
    $34,095
    24 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.0T 4-Door Autobahn DSG
    Starts at
    $35,195
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Notable features

Two- or four-door hatchback
Turbo four-cylinder engine standard
Manual or dual-clutch automatic transmission
Related to automaker's Golf hatchback

The good & the bad

The good

Ride and handling
Dual-clutch transmission
Cabin quality and roominess
Good visibility
Brakes

The bad

Steering feel
Acceleration wheel hop
Numb clutch pedal
Low touch-screen placement

Expert 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Kelsey Mays
Full article
our expert's take

Editor’s note: This review was written in August 2016 about the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI, but little of substance has changed with this year’s model. To see what’s new for 2017, click here, or check out a side-by-side comparison of the two model years. 

Volkswagen overhauled the GTI’s multimedia system for 2016, addressing one of our few complaints about a hatchback that thumped seven competitors two years ago in Cars.com’s $30,000 Cheap Speed Challenge (see the results here). 

That was a 2015 car, the first year of the GTI’s current generation. With the subsequent updates, the 2016 GTI is as strong a choice as ever.

The GTI is a middle child of VW’s larger Golf lineup, which ranges from the sub-$20,000 Golf to the highest-performance Golf R (compare them here). We cover the others separately in Cars.com’s Research section. The GTI comes in two- and four-door versions, with three trim levels and manual or dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Go here to stack them up or here to compare the 2015 and 2016 Golf GTI.

We tested a two-door, manual-transmission 2016 GTI SE.

Exterior & Styling

The GTI’s claw-like bumper strakes make it easy to distinguish from other Golf models, but onlookers might mistake the rear for the prior-generation GTI. Such is the evolution of the Golf family, whose design hasn’t radically changed over the past decade despite the entire group’s redesign for 2015. Dual tailpipes and 18-inch alloy wheels are standard on the GTI.

How It Drives

Absent much of the accelerator lag that’s plagued earlier Volkswagens, the GTI is easy to ram through gears, rev-match on downshifts and have a general heck of a good time in. Rated at 210 horsepower and a robust 258 pounds-feet of torque, the GTI’s turbocharged four-cylinder exhibits some noticeable turbo lag off the line, but it dissipates soon enough for smooth, powerful revving all the way up to the car’s 6,000-rpm redline.

The six-speed manual has direct, medium throws and a light clutch, but it suffers a tall second gear that seems too widely spaced from first. Wind out the latter and the GTI can still dump you into awkwardly low rpm on the upshift. The GTI’s optional dual-clutch automatic transmission, however, is a terrific unit, with rapid shifts and little of the low-speed hesitation that accompanies some dual-clutch transmissions.

Available on all trims, a $1,495 Performance Package adds 10 hp but no torque along with larger brakes and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential; it’s available with either gearbox.

Ride quality is firm but livable, and — apart from a bit of numb steering feedback — handling shines as far as front-wheel-drive cars go. Understeer creeps in at the limits, but it’s mild enough to stay out of the picture in most maneuvers. Body roll is well contained and the chassis stays planted over mid-corner bumps. The brakes are both strong and linear — a point driven home by the 2015 GTI’s 114.2-foot stopping performance from 60 mph in Cars.com’s Cheap Speed Challenge. No competitor came close.

Interior

Save some rickety climate controls, cabin quality is impressive. Materials are padded where your arms and elbows land, and the optional leather upholstery is rich, high-grade stuff. Numerous little touches — from fabric-wrapped A-pillars to a height-adjustable armrest and one-touch windows all around — put the GTI, like other Golf models, a cut above most compact-car interiors.

It’s practical, too. The hip-hugging seats are narrow but comfortable, and the GTI’s upright dashboard preserves space for your knees and legs in a manner that cockpit-style wraparound interiors do not. (You can keep those layouts; I’m way over the whole cockpit thing.) Visibility is good, too. In an era where rear windows seem to be shrinking with every redesign, the GTI’s expansive glass is a breath of fresh air.

Both front seats have a slide-forward feature for backseat access that returns them to their prior position when you reset them, but the slow, crank-knob reclining adjusters in two-door models are a drag. Four-door models have standard power recliners, with an optional full-power driver’s seat.

Backseat dimensions are nearly identical between the two- and four-door GTI, and rear legroom and headroom are abundant as compact cars go. Volkswagen stashes numerous amenities in there, as well, from air vents and reading lights to an armrest and four cupholders. Other small-coupe backseats are penalty boxes by comparison. Road-trip away.

Ergonomics & Electronics

Updated for 2016, the GTI’s standard 6.5-inch touch-screen adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Bluetooth, HD radio and a USB port are also standard. The system has middling graphics but an intuitive interface, with physical shortcut buttons and volume and tuning knobs. Other automakers — OK, mostly Honda — should take note. If you prefer not to use smartphone-based Apple or Google Maps for in-dash routing, a navigation system is optional, as is Volkswagen’s very good Fender premium stereo.

Cargo & Storage

Cargo volume behind the backseat is 22.8 cubic feet; the seats fold in a 60/40 split to create 52.7 cubic feet of maximum room, with a tall center pass-through if you need to carry long, narrow items. The layout is identical in both two- and four-door GTIs, and their cargo volumes are competitive with other small hatchbacks.

Safety

The GTI earned top marks in crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as a rating of advanced for its optional forward collision warning system with automatic emergency braking. (IIHS rates such systems basic, advanced or superior.) VW packages that system with lane departure and blind spot warning systems, plus a self-parking system, in the Driver Assistance Package, which is optional on all but the GTI’s lowest trim level.

Value in Its Class

Prices range from about $26,000 to roughly $37,000 with all options. That’s on the pricey side for a performance compact, but the GTI is worth it. Honda’s forthcoming high-performance versions of its excellent Civic redesign might give shoppers a compelling alternative, but until then, Volkswagen has the best all-around pocket rocket on the market.

Assistant Managing Editor-News
Kelsey Mays

Former Assistant Managing Editor-News Kelsey Mays likes quality, reliability, safety and practicality. But he also likes a fair price.

2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI review: Our expert's take
By Kelsey Mays

Editor’s note: This review was written in August 2016 about the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI, but little of substance has changed with this year’s model. To see what’s new for 2017, click here, or check out a side-by-side comparison of the two model years. 

Volkswagen overhauled the GTI’s multimedia system for 2016, addressing one of our few complaints about a hatchback that thumped seven competitors two years ago in Cars.com’s $30,000 Cheap Speed Challenge (see the results here). 

That was a 2015 car, the first year of the GTI’s current generation. With the subsequent updates, the 2016 GTI is as strong a choice as ever.

The GTI is a middle child of VW’s larger Golf lineup, which ranges from the sub-$20,000 Golf to the highest-performance Golf R (compare them here). We cover the others separately in Cars.com’s Research section. The GTI comes in two- and four-door versions, with three trim levels and manual or dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Go here to stack them up or here to compare the 2015 and 2016 Golf GTI.

We tested a two-door, manual-transmission 2016 GTI SE.

Exterior & Styling

The GTI’s claw-like bumper strakes make it easy to distinguish from other Golf models, but onlookers might mistake the rear for the prior-generation GTI. Such is the evolution of the Golf family, whose design hasn’t radically changed over the past decade despite the entire group’s redesign for 2015. Dual tailpipes and 18-inch alloy wheels are standard on the GTI.

How It Drives

Absent much of the accelerator lag that’s plagued earlier Volkswagens, the GTI is easy to ram through gears, rev-match on downshifts and have a general heck of a good time in. Rated at 210 horsepower and a robust 258 pounds-feet of torque, the GTI’s turbocharged four-cylinder exhibits some noticeable turbo lag off the line, but it dissipates soon enough for smooth, powerful revving all the way up to the car’s 6,000-rpm redline.

The six-speed manual has direct, medium throws and a light clutch, but it suffers a tall second gear that seems too widely spaced from first. Wind out the latter and the GTI can still dump you into awkwardly low rpm on the upshift. The GTI’s optional dual-clutch automatic transmission, however, is a terrific unit, with rapid shifts and little of the low-speed hesitation that accompanies some dual-clutch transmissions.

Available on all trims, a $1,495 Performance Package adds 10 hp but no torque along with larger brakes and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential; it’s available with either gearbox.

Ride quality is firm but livable, and — apart from a bit of numb steering feedback — handling shines as far as front-wheel-drive cars go. Understeer creeps in at the limits, but it’s mild enough to stay out of the picture in most maneuvers. Body roll is well contained and the chassis stays planted over mid-corner bumps. The brakes are both strong and linear — a point driven home by the 2015 GTI’s 114.2-foot stopping performance from 60 mph in Cars.com’s Cheap Speed Challenge. No competitor came close.

Interior

Save some rickety climate controls, cabin quality is impressive. Materials are padded where your arms and elbows land, and the optional leather upholstery is rich, high-grade stuff. Numerous little touches — from fabric-wrapped A-pillars to a height-adjustable armrest and one-touch windows all around — put the GTI, like other Golf models, a cut above most compact-car interiors.

It’s practical, too. The hip-hugging seats are narrow but comfortable, and the GTI’s upright dashboard preserves space for your knees and legs in a manner that cockpit-style wraparound interiors do not. (You can keep those layouts; I’m way over the whole cockpit thing.) Visibility is good, too. In an era where rear windows seem to be shrinking with every redesign, the GTI’s expansive glass is a breath of fresh air.

Both front seats have a slide-forward feature for backseat access that returns them to their prior position when you reset them, but the slow, crank-knob reclining adjusters in two-door models are a drag. Four-door models have standard power recliners, with an optional full-power driver’s seat.

Backseat dimensions are nearly identical between the two- and four-door GTI, and rear legroom and headroom are abundant as compact cars go. Volkswagen stashes numerous amenities in there, as well, from air vents and reading lights to an armrest and four cupholders. Other small-coupe backseats are penalty boxes by comparison. Road-trip away.

Ergonomics & Electronics

Updated for 2016, the GTI’s standard 6.5-inch touch-screen adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Bluetooth, HD radio and a USB port are also standard. The system has middling graphics but an intuitive interface, with physical shortcut buttons and volume and tuning knobs. Other automakers — OK, mostly Honda — should take note. If you prefer not to use smartphone-based Apple or Google Maps for in-dash routing, a navigation system is optional, as is Volkswagen’s very good Fender premium stereo.

Cargo & Storage

Cargo volume behind the backseat is 22.8 cubic feet; the seats fold in a 60/40 split to create 52.7 cubic feet of maximum room, with a tall center pass-through if you need to carry long, narrow items. The layout is identical in both two- and four-door GTIs, and their cargo volumes are competitive with other small hatchbacks.

Safety

The GTI earned top marks in crash tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as a rating of advanced for its optional forward collision warning system with automatic emergency braking. (IIHS rates such systems basic, advanced or superior.) VW packages that system with lane departure and blind spot warning systems, plus a self-parking system, in the Driver Assistance Package, which is optional on all but the GTI’s lowest trim level.

Value in Its Class

Prices range from about $26,000 to roughly $37,000 with all options. That’s on the pricey side for a performance compact, but the GTI is worth it. Honda’s forthcoming high-performance versions of its excellent Civic redesign might give shoppers a compelling alternative, but until then, Volkswagen has the best all-around pocket rocket on the market.

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Overall rating
5/5
Combined side rating front seat
5/5
Combined side rating rear seat
5/5
Frontal barrier crash rating driver
4/5
Frontal barrier crash rating passenger
5/5
Overall frontal barrier crash rating
4/5
Overall side crash rating
5/5
Side barrier rating
5/5
Side barrier rating driver
5/5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5/5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5/5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5/5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
12 years
Powertrain
5 years / 60,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
MY 2016-MY 2017 vehicles / 75,000 miles; MY 2018- MY 2019 vehicles / 72,000 miles; MY 2020 and newer vehicles / 75,000 miles
Basic
Vehicles purchased on or after 1 / 5 / 21: MY 2017 & older, 2 yrs / 24,000 miles (whichever is 1st) limited warranty; MY 2018-19, 1 yr / 12,000 miles (whichever is 1st) limited warranty; MY 2020 & newer, 2 years / 24,000 miles (whichever is 1st) limited warranty
Dealer certification
100-plus point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.9 / 5
Based on 83 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.6
Interior 4.8
Performance 4.9
Value 4.8
Exterior 4.7
Reliability 4.7

Most recent

  • It's a fantastic car...when it's working.

    It's a fantastic car...when it's working. It stranded me on the highway due to a valve spring breaking. The check engine light turns on like once a month, and the oil pressure light comes on intermittently. This car is immense fun and seemingly very refined, but it does not inspire confidence that I won't have to call a tow truck on a longer drive.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 2.0
    19 people out of 25 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Jack of all trades

    GTI's do almost everything well. Economy, performance, flexibility, holds value, road car, back roads car, safety, comfort, feature-laden and now almost $10K less than the price of the average new vehicle. Two minor flaws IMO. All GTI's should have Golf R climate controls. Standard controls too confusing and fussy. Rather set it and forgot it. DSG is "still funky after all these years." Don't get me wrong, the lightning quick shifts and in-traffic ease are compelling, but DSGs can be clunky and feel strange at low speed and can't yet read all of your intentions correctly, thus some odd decisions/shifts on occasion. Not a fault, just a thing. Otherwise brilliant. GTI is among the contenders for "best" mass-produced combustion engine car of all time. Yes, that good. If shopping the used market, I would strongly suggest one try to get a Performance Package car. Much better brakes that won't need brake service as often and stop better. Also, the electronically controlled differential aids both traction and handling.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    19 people out of 19 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • One of the best cars I have owned

    It is a fun car to own, great gas mileage and even if your not going to turn it into a rice burner it is still a awesome little car and gots alot of power, you can get around all these slow idiot drivers that seem to be all over the place. The interior is nice and comfortable, I have already took mine on a trip to Cali and no comfort issues, smart with mechanical other than stuff that should of been taken care of by the dealership on their "certified pre-owned inspection" but that is a dealership laziness issue so stay away from Larry H Miller Volkswagen in Avondale and you should be ok. Look forward to many many years & miles behind the wheel of my car and would recommend this car
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • GTI Sport: Well worth the upgrade from the S

    If you can find the Sport trim on the 2017 GTI, I can’t recommend it enough. Boost in horsepower, upgraded brake system, upgraded differential and dynamic bi-xenon headlights easily make the upgrade from the standard GTI S a no-brainer. By far and away the best car I’ve owned.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great Car for Great Value!

    Although I purchased this car and have not yet taken delivery, this will be my third VW and have driven several other GTI's (including the one I am waiting to have delivered). One of the major reasons I have stuck loyal with VW is the bundle of performance, comfort, affordability, and reliability. Yes, there are production cars that will beat the GTI in all of these categories, but where one of these cars boasts it lacks in another area. For the GTI, it is a very well-rounded package! I could go on and on about specifics of the car, but I feel the easiest way to get an idea or feel for this vehicle, is to go hands-on playing through the ins and outs of the car, every feature and option, including the interior, exterior, and driving. Then, go into any other comparable car and count how many times you say to yourself "well the GTI had that..." Before reading on, please note that I live in New England and although I have spent most of my life (winters more specifically) driving FWD cars, AWD is certainly a "nice to have." In my opinion, the biggest flaw of this vehicle, is the lack of AWD on the standard GTI trim levels. YES, you could upgrade to the Golf R, but if you are simply looking for AWD without an extra 100 horsepower, then it may be very difficult to justify the extra $$ you will be dishing out. I rated the exterior styling as average, not because I dislike it, but because VW certainly did not go to any extent to make the car flashy or over-styled. Although the appearance is fairly basic, it is still aggressively styled. I would love to be able to say more about this car, but without having more seat and hands-on time, I feel as though I have given all I have to offer. Definitely go and test drive a GTI and find out why it is such a hot-selling car!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    1 person out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • I've owned many VWs, but this is my favorite yet

    So to start this off, I own a 2017 VW GTI in SE trim, with the performance package, 6 speed manual transmission, and leather interior. I bought it used with 28,000 miles. I use it as a daily driver for my hour long commute to work and occasionally take it to the local racetrack for track days. As a commuter car, it's ride is a little harsh because of the performance pack's stiffer springs, but that helps with the racing and overall it is still very comfortable. When driving reasonably I have peaked with 48.7 miles per gallon AVERAGE (WITHOUT HAVING AN ECO MODE!) over a one hour and 15 minute drive, but in the 6,000 miles ive owned the car (including racing), my overall average for ownership is right at 32mpg. As for performance goes, it is NOT a straight line speed car. Its much quicker than you would expect it to be, beating some r/t and 392 v8 chargers/challengers on quick 'zero to speed limit' pulls, but again without modification its not spectacularly fast. But this car is AMAZING for cornering, that is hands down where you will have the most fun in this car. I still have the OEM Hankook tires on it and even though they're a basic all season, this car has some phenomenal grip. Normal highway onramps and offramps you can reasonably do double, sometimes close to triple the recommended speed. Maintenance is typical german car standard; expect routine maintenance to be reasonable, but big jobs will be a lot more expensive than American or Asian cars of similar style. The upside though is if you keep up with regular maintenance, you should have very few problems. Change your oil religiously to oem standards and you'll avoid many problems as so many systems on the engine are run off oil pressure, including the timing which is very important for VW engines. The interior is very understated and everything has a place, all of the materials feel very nice and well made. The infotatiment has quite a few options and features, it's definitely worth taking some time to learn it. Overall it is very intuitive and easy to navigate. Android auto/Apple car play is not wireless on this model year, but works phenomenal and I have grown to only use that for my media and navigation. Being a 2017, this is offered with drive modes and normally the GTI has Eco, Normal, Sport, and Custom. Being a performance pack you get Big brakes, stiffer suspension, a few more horsepower, and a sport display including various temperature gauges, a g force gauge, and a boost gauge. The performance package GTI does NOT have an eco mode, but in Normal mode its still very efficient. The drive modes change throttle response, engine noise, steering response, and suspension feel. Honestly, I'd buy this car over and over again if given the chance. If you're considering it, go drive one and take some corners quickly, you'll fall in love. Its practical, reasonably quick, and very very easy to live with every day.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Most fun car I’ve owned

    This car has been great so far. New owner and purchased pre-owned. Very much enjoy driving it and is super comfortable, sporty, fast, and has incredible phone connectivity and driver features. Definitely better than other cars I’ve driven. I have the cloth seats which are very comfortable and adjustable. Multiple driving modes allow for fun or cruising. Definitely worth looking into for affordable and practical fun
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Absolutely great - as usual

    Consumer Reports rates the 2017 GTI as the most reliable version from 2015 to 2019, and a driving experience rating of 98 out of 100 points. It doesn't get better than that. The GTI continues to offer an excellent blend of driving enjoyment and practicality wrapped in a package that feels more expensive than it actually is. Car and Driver magazine calls the GTI "Simply the Best" and has awarded it with a 10 Best trophy for the 15th consecutive year in 2020. Check their website for more details and comparison wins.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Best All Around Performance Car I've Ever Owned

    I owned a 2015 GTI/S but unfortunately lost it during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. As soon as the insurance paid off on the 2015 model, I purchased a 2017 GTI Sport. There are no regrets with either purchase and have found that the GTI in any trim level is an awesome all-around performance car, comfortable and great on long trips. Should I find the need to purchase another Volkswagen, it'll be either another GTI or the new Arteon. VW of Beaumont has an awesome staff, deals and customer service! 👍🇩🇪👍
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • 2017 VW GTI SE

    I knew that this car would be great, but I did not know that this car would be excellent. I would recommend for anyone looking for this style of car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • It's the "everyone car"

    My GTI is amazing. The performance, the comfort, the fuel economy, the look. There is a sweet spot in auto design that is hard to get to: how much power to give it before it becomes more expensive, how much comfort, how much technology, etc... This car has it all... but not too much to make it unreachable for an average budget. My favorite features: Reverse camera, Sport mode/ Manual dual clutch shifters on steering wheel, Apple Car Play/ Android / bluetooth calling/nav/music, Heated Seats, Tons of leg and storage room, Comfortable, Good gas mileage, Awesome handling, Heated mirrors and nice climate control, Tons of power from the turbo (220HP, 258 lb.-ft. of torque), "Carbon Steel Gray Metallic" color, Bright Headlights, Hatchback (I can never go back to a regular trunk again). Lastly, the plaid seats-- at first I thought they were a bit funny (they are a throwback to the original GTI)... but now I love them... not to mention the seat hugs you like a racing seat... but comfortable for long trips. It probably is the very BEST all-around car. If you have kids they are safe and comfortable in the back. If you need to commute: it averages 35 MPG on the highway. If you want to feel like you are in a race car, pull the shift lever back and sport-mode will whip you around the corners with a big grin on your face. The GTI is the best car I have ever owned.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Reliable car

    This car met all my needs. I just need to move on from small cars. I need to get a bigger car. This car can go really fast if you plane to upgrade little performance parts of the car.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI?

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI is available in 4 trim levels:

  • Autobahn (2 styles)
  • S (4 styles)
  • SE (2 styles)
  • Sport (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI?

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI offers up to 24 MPG in city driving and 34 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI?

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI reliable?

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI has an average reliability rating of 4.7 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI owners.

Is the 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI a good Hatchback?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI. 98.8% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.9 / 5
Based on 83 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.6
  • Interior: 4.8
  • Performance: 4.9
  • Value: 4.8
  • Exterior: 4.7
  • Reliability: 4.7

Volkswagen Golf GTI history

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