2004 VOLKSWAGEN GTI NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Volkswagen GTI?
New wheels grace the 2004 Volkswagen GTI, while optional OnStar telematics and standard warning lights for seatbelts and the fuel cap remind you to attend to the details. The real news, however, is the addition of the high-powered GTI R32 model, with a blistering 237-horsepower V6 engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission that sends power to all four corners. The Volkswagen GTI R32 rides on a beefed up suspension and 18-inch wheels; dual exhaust pipes, sport seats and upgraded interior trim pieces spice things up for the drag race.

Advantages of the 2004 Volkswagen GTI:

• The R32 engine shows that you can teach an old dog new tricks
• Impressive cargo space
• Extra features, such as side curtain airbags, go above and beyond most small hatchbacks
• Despite sporting pretensions, doesn’t beat you up during daily commutes

Objections to the 2004 Volkswagen GTI:

• Except for the R32 version, not as athletic as other nimble sport hatchbacks
• Premium price for average performance in the class
• Will be replaced next year by a completely redesigned version

Editor's Advice:
Those who need a liberal dose of performance while driving a sensible car know that the GTI is the sporty version of the Volkswagen Golf. It rides on a sport-tuned suspension and offers a choice of a turbocharged inline four making 180 horsepower, a V6 rated at 200 ponies or the healthy new 3.2-liter V6 engine capable of 237 horsepower. Unlike some of the more singular-minded sport hatchback coupes such as the Toyota Celica GT-S, the Volkswagen GTI is gentle enough over road irregularities to be used as a daily commuter, with plenty of amenities that make everyday driving a pleasure. This segment has experienced lots of growth, with the Ford SVT Focus and the Mini Cooper S delivering plenty of zip with no loss of functionality. The VW GTI deserves some new underpinnings, and we’ll see a redesigned model for the 2005 model year.