Spend some time with the 2008 VW GTI and you’ll quickly ‘make friends with your fast’ as the marketing tagline reads. In fact, the GTI and I became so close so quickly I’m suffering some serious separation anxiety at the moment.
The way she took those corners on her 17” rims (4-wheel disk brakes). The way we frolicked on the open highways—her, growling a 2.0-litre, 16-valve turbo engine paired to the 6-speed manual tranny (6-speed automatic Direct-Shift Gearbox with Triptronic and sport mode, optional).
While I, grip the multi-function wheel (with electromechanical power steering with variable assistance and active return). Oh, the memories (and fine German engineering). But I’ll save the sap and get straight to it.
VW GTI Interior & Styling
The exterior styling is energetic and exudes that ‘let’s go!’ vibe. The standard 17” alloy wheels with a progressive 5-spoke design wrapped in 225/45 R17h all-season performance tires pronounce this. 18” wheels are optional.
My test vehicle came in the 3-door form with its hatchback, pocket-rocket look. The front-end on the 2008 GTI is aggressive with a couple of halogen fog-lamps and a large black front grill with honeycomb mesh and red surrounding stripe. Colour-matched, anti-intrusion side-door beams lead to sporty dual stainless exhaust pipes in the back.
Clean, simple cabin with a straightforward approach
The cockpit is classic VW—clean and simple, with blue-red illuminated controls and gauges. The instrument panel is straightforward and easy to view in the driver’s position. Though a turbo boost gauge would have been a nice touch (perhaps a little gauge on the driver A-pillar?).
Dual-zone driver-passenger controls, automatic climate control, and heated seats are all standard. Actually, you’ll find plenty of standards in the GTI, including a multi-function trip computer keeping things in check; cruise control; remote central power-locking system; alarm system; and an auxiliary input jack in the glovebox, to mention a few.
Rear passengers will find comfortable seats, good legroom, centre armrest, and a centre pass-through. Kick them out and the 60/40 split-folding rear seats provide loads of cargo space. Invite them back and impress with the 10-speaker sound system, including AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD. SIRIUS satellite radio with a 3-month subscription is also available.
Both the 5-door and 3-door find driver and front-passenger side and curtain airbags (rear-passenger side airbag in the 5-door only). ABS braking, anti-slip traction regulation, and an electronic stabilization program will keep occupants safe and the GTI planted to the road.
GTI Horsepower & Performance
This hot hatch has a reputation for being a fun-to-drive and nimble vehicle, and it shows. When the 2.0L turbocharged engine puts down a whopping 200 hp at 207 lb-ft of torque and propels you forward snapping your head back, the front sport seats with tight bolsters and 8-way manual adjustability will keep your ass in place with security and solace. The powerplant is paired with a six-speed manual or a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
Fast forward over a decade, the 2022 VW Golf R specs reveal a 315-hp track weapon with unassuming looks. This machine sports two clutches and torque is distributed to each wheel individually, where 100-percent of rear wheel torque can be dished out to a single rear wheel.
The GTI’s engine provides plenty of power, and it accelerates quickly and smoothly. The turbocharged engine provides a boost of power at lower RPMs, which helps the car to feel lively and responsive. The GTI also has a sport-tuned suspension, which provides a firm ride and helps the car to handle well in corners, keep it planted on the road. Steering is precise and responsive, which gives any driver a good dose of confidence.
Handling is also aided by its front-wheel-drive configuration, which provides excellent traction and grip. The car comes with stability control, which helps to keep the car in line during high-speed maneuvers. The GTI also has excellent brakes, which provide strong stopping power.
If you’re a hermit or have trouble making new friends, then get off the computer and visit your local VW dealership and take the 2008 GTI for a spin. You’ll be pals in no time. Check out the rest of our 5-door hatchback reviews.
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