Added: 01/23/2006 |
Return Of The Giant Killer – Volkswagen GTi GolfFor a few years recently one of the most famous of all GT hatches seemed to lose its performance edge. The Volkswagen GTi Golf is one of the original hot hatchbacks to start a chain of events back in the 1970s that continues to flourish today. The 2006 VW GTi now has the performance to back up its status as a world leader in the hot hatch arena. For those to whom street credibility matters,
the Golf is once again the hot hatch to be seen driving.
Back in the 1970s when the first Volkswagen GTi Golf ventured onto the streets few could have realised, including Volkswagen, the impact this little gem was going to have on the motoring community, or indeed that it was going to last as long as it has. The success of the Volkswagen GTi Golf spawned an entire breed of new sports car category. Other manufacturers were quick to recognise a successful concept and began to produce hot versions of their own small or medium hatches. Today the hot hatch category is as much a part of the motoring scene as any category to be found in it.
Performance
The 2006 VW GTi Golf has been up beefed up in the engine department in order address a lack of straight-line performance associated with previous models. The 4 cylinder, 1984c.c. engine now develops 197 bhp which equates to a top speed of well over 140 mph and a 0-60 time of around 7 seconds. Yet straightline performance is only part of the improvement, in-gear acceleration is also much improved with the engine ready and willing to surge forward when asked.
Ride and Handling
The Volkswagen GTi Golf has always performed well in this area, and the 2006 VW GTi is no exception. The chassis has been tuned for composure and ride comfort, which have been blended very well, making the limitations very high indeed. In addition there's a refreshing sensation of sportiness that some previous incantations of GTi failed to generate.
Comfort
The interior of the 2006 VW GTi has been designed for long periods at the wheel. The front seats are both supportive and comfortable, while the back seats have sufficient space for up to three adults. Standard features include: air conditioning, steering adjustment, remote central locking, rear 3 point centre seat belts, electric windows front and rear and a CD player.
Safety and Security
The NCAP rating for the Volkswagen GTi Golf is a five star one which should tell you just how safe this latest version of the popular Golf actually is. A full set of airbags are fitted as standard together with ABS and traction control. Security is also amply covered.
Running Costs
A new Volkswagen GTi Golf with 3 doors will set you back £19,995 while a 5 door costs £20, 495. Add to that an Insurance Grouping of 17 and ownership looks expensive. The return on your investment however is balanced by strong residuals - Volkswagen GTi Golfs tend to retain about 60% of their original value after three years, if you keep within the following criteria: 36,000 miles supported by a Full Service History (FSH). In addition it is quite feasible to squeeze 35 mpg from the Golf even with the odd spot of heavy right foot treatment. In addition the Golf is well bolted together which should ensure that reliability never becomes an issue, provided it's maintained in keeping with the manufacturer's guidelines.
Conclusion
The 2006 VW GTi Golf continues to make a sensible new car purchase to anyone who enjoys the experience of motoring.
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