Who wore it best? 50 years of Volkswagen GTI
The GTI has been putting smiles on the faces of all that drive them for decades. Now, as Volkswagen’s performance arm hits 50, we take a look at the best to wear the three letter badge.
Over the past 50 years, three letters have resonated deeply in the motoring world – GTI. Applied to some of the greatest road cars of all time, it’s come to represent a genuinely involving driving experience
Though most remember it for its application on the Golf, the GTI badge has found its way onto a number of other Volkswagen cars too – and here’s 10 of the best combined.
Lupo GTI
2001-2004
Powered by a 1.6-litre engine with 125bhp, the Lupo GTI could hit 60mph in under eight seconds and, thanks to tuned suspension and sticky tyres, was an absolute hoot in the bends, too.
MK1 Golf GTI
1975-1983
Now a cult classic, prices for MK1 Golf GTIs in good condition are constantly rising.
MK2 Golf GTI
1983-1991
Initially offered with a 1.8-litre engine, with just under 110bhp. Later on, a more powerful 16 valve version was released – giving drivers a little more punch. A facelifted ‘Big Bumper’ version was introduced around 15 years later than the GTI’s first reveal.
MK7 Golf GTI
2017-
Though larger than ever, the latest GTI is still instantly recognisable thanks to red trim in the front grille, and tartan cloth seats inside – just the same as you’ll find in the first MK1 GTI.
MK5 Polo GTI
2011-2015
A typically high level of build quality had been applied throughout, but was criticised for being too grown-up. However, it did show Volkswagen expanding the GTI name into other areas other than just the Golf.
Up! GTI
2018-
Similar in size to the Lupo GTI, the Up! GTI is ideal for UK B-roads, with enough power to keep things interesting yet not too much to make it serious.
MK5 Golf GTI
2005-2009
The MK5 GTI represented a return to form, not least because it was fitted with true performance mechanicals.
Polo GTI
2018-
The suspension has been firmed up for better cornering while, interesting, it’s going to be offered initially with only a dual-clutch DSG gearbox – though a manual is expected to arrive later.
MK3 Golf GTI
1992-1997
It was also the most spacious GTI made up until that point, and was more refined than ever before, meaning that drivers could travel further in more comfort.
MK4 Golf GTI
1997-2004
It was, at least, comfortable to drive over long distances and looked unassuming enough to be parked anywhere safely – but it lacked the sparkle that people expect from a GTI.
