Taut, agile and quick, the latest version of Volkswagen's venerable hot hatch is fun to drive and so much more. The GTI is one of the most practical, easy-to-live-with choices among sporty cars. It's quiet and civilized enough that it doesn't wear you out on a long drive. The interior is very well finished, with luxurious materials, comfortable and supportive seats, and a comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system. Now in its seventh generation, the GTI has matured into a capable, refined, and sophisticated piece of machinery with the latest electronic features.
Power comes from 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine shared with other members of the Audi and VW family, matched with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch (DSG) automatic transmission. The engine provides plenty of grunt with either transmission, although the DSG lacks the finesse of a conventional automatic around town. We recorded 29 mpg overall with our manual transmission car, which is commendable for a car with this kind of performance.
In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.
Read more about extended warranties
4-door hatchback
7-speed Sequential
6-speed Manual
The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2019 Volkswagen GTI owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
CD or DVD players, radio, speakers, GPS, communication system (e.g., OnStar), display screen freezes or goes blank, phone pairing (e.g. Bluetooth), voice control commands, steering wheel controls, portable music device interface (e.g., iPod/MP3 player), backup or other camera/sensors.
Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, 4WD/AWD components, driveline vibration, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), electrical failure.
"My vehicle was delivered to me with the strut-pucks still installed. The dealership I bought it from replaced my bump stops and strut boots to fix the damage caused by the strut pucks. In doing so, they nicked my CV boot, which I had replaced at a different dealership. I do not believe it failed on its own accord, but because of the first dealership."
Anonymous, AL (2019 Volkswagen GTI Unsure 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)Radiator, cooling fan, antifreeze leaks, water pump, thermostat, overheating.
"Water pump failed at about 10,000 miles and dumped its "load" at our second home which is 80 miles away. Had it towed for warranty repair; used our pickup truck as backup transportation to return home. Prior hints of possible trouble were having to infrequently add small amounts of coolant to the system but could find no source of any leaks. Just assumed that was normal for this make/model/turbo/etc. Found out later that recirc pump had failed, coolant overheated (expanded), and "relieved" itself through the coolant expansion tank. Water pump had to be replaced and system fixed/commissioned. Caused some inconvenience, (however) under warranty, and dealership treated me well. Car has had no other problems and runs extremely well. Exceptionally fun but econonical car to own, too, on highway especially. Hatchback has proven quite handy hauling loads; I use the truck for large loads and towing."
Anonymous, GA (2019 Volkswagen GTI SE 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling), loose interior and exterior trim or moldings, rust.
"Multiple passenger grab handles were defective (they did not retract against the ceiling reliably) -- Fixed under warranty"
Anonymous, (2019 Volkswagen GTI Autobahn 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, clutch replacement.
Check engine light, sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor), emission control devices (includes EGR), engine computer, engine computer, fuel cap, fuel gauge/sender, fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel leaks, stalling or hesitation.
Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, remote engine start, alarm or security system
Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbo or supercharger, timing chain or timing belt.
Gear selector or linkage, leaks, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission.
Antilock system (ABS), parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pulsation or vibration, squeaking, brake failure or wear.
Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, leaks.
Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, oil leaks.
Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, loose or cracked seals and/or weather-stripping, air and water leaks.
Power or manual windows, locks and latches, tailgate, hatch or trunk, doors or sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls, safety belts, sunroof, convertible top.
Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
Blower (fan) motor, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate control, refrigerant leakage, electrical failure.
Alternator, starter, hybrid battery and related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, distributor or rotor failure, spark plugs and wires failure.
"Engine stop/start feature at idle. Car experienced random engine stops during driving."
Anonymous, (2019 Volkswagen GTI Autobahn 2.0-L 4 Cyl turbo)