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2016 Volkswagen GTI review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Volkswagen GTI highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Turbocharged engine
  • Engaging handling
  • Upscale material finishing

Cons

  • Automated transmission isn’t great in slow traffic

Mileage (EPA estimate)

25 city, 33 highway, 28 combined

Pricing for current inventory

From $17,998 - $18,998*

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Dynamic hatchback performer

Looking for a spirited hot hatch? Look no further than the iconic Volkswagen GTI. For the 2016 model year, with a raft of upgraded cabin technology, this five-seat hatchback brings thrilling performance to your everyday driving duties. With versatile passenger and cargo dimensions, plus a turbocharged powertrain, the 2016 GTI is easy on the eye, and a pleasure to drivel. For the 2016 model year, Volkswagen introduced an upgraded infotainment system and offered more features for its optional Driver Assistance package.

All Volkswagen GTI years

What is new for the 2016 Volkswagen GTI?

  • Automated Cruise Control features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The S trim now comes with Rear View Camera as standard equipment.

5 reasons to buy the 2016 Volkswagen GTI

1. Tech features 

Enhancing passenger enjoyment on longer journeys and daily commutes is the 2016 GTI’s 6.5-inch touchscreen interface. For easier parking, you’ll appreciate the integrated rearview camera to make backing up easier. Plus you can enjoy your favorite podcasts and playlists via Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® functionality for a modern and connected driving experience.  

2. Great turbo engine 

Looking for a thrilling engine setup to give your every day driving an edge? The 2016 GTI's turbocharged 2.0L engine produces 210 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. With the optional Performance package, power increases to 220 hp. In addition to these performance chops, the 2016 GTI has pleasing fuel economy figures too, achieving an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined with either the manual or automatic transmission.

3. Spacious interior 

The 2016 GTI boasts an excellent interior with front sport seats that provide ample support, making it ideal for long drives and daily errands around town. Rear passengers enjoy plenty of space too, with generous legroom of 35.6 inches. For your road trip luggage or everyday essentials, the 2016 GTI has 22.8 cu-ft of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 52.7 cu-ft with the seats folded. 

4. Fun to drive 

The Volkswagen GTI is all about driving enjoyment, and the 2016 model is no exception. Enjoy the feeling of control from the standard manual transmission or opt for a 2016 GTI with the DSG automated transmission for slick, rev-matched shifting instead. Pick a 2016 GTI with the optional Performance package and you’ll get an adaptive suspension system that can handle even the most gnarly of road surfaces. 

5. Optional driver aids 

Available as an option on the 2016 GTI SE and Autobahn trims is a Driver Assistance package that supports you as you drive. Highlights include adaptive cruise control for your regular highway journeys, keeping you at a set distance from the vehicle ahead of you. The package also includes an automated parallel parking system that can assist when you need to park on a busy downtown street. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

5 out of 5

5 customer reviews

RepairPal reliability rating

3
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Volkswagen GTI an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Volkswagen GTI 44th out of 46 among Compact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Volkswagen GTI

Volkswagen GTI features and specs

Curious how Volkswagen GTI trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

S 2WD 2D Hatchback

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • CD Audio
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Manual Transmission
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine

Optional Features

  • Bluetooth Technology

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

210

Torque (ft-lbs)

258

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

13.2

Wheelbase

103.6"

Overall length

168"

Width

70.5"

Height

56.8"

Leg room

F 41.2"/R 35.6"

Head room

F 38.4"/R 38.1"

Front tires

P225/40HR18

Rear tires

P225/40HR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Manual 6

2016 Volkswagen GTI FAQ

Volkswagen GTI articles

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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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