2004 Volkswagen Golf Gti 1.8t Hatchback 2-door 1.8l on 2040-cars

Vehicle Overview

Volkswagen’s energetic GTI hatchback got a sporty, three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a leather-covered handbrake lever and gearshift knob for 2003. Premium CD radios added backlit buttons, and an enhanced windshield-wiper system was also installed. Volkswagen’s Electronic Stabilization Program, which uses yaw and position sensors, was made standard on the VR6 model and optional on the 1.8T.

Except for restyled wheels and a new underhood engine cover design, little has changed for 2004. A high-performance R32 model has joined the Volkswagen lineup.

The performance-oriented GTI comes only as a hatchback coupe, while the related Golf hatchback is available with two or four doors. The GTI is a charter member of the group of small cars dubbed “pocket rockets.”

Exterior

The GTI coupe and Golf hatchbacks all measure 164.9 inches long overall, which is more than 7 inches shorter than the company’s Jetta sedan. The GTI is equipped with a sport suspension, fog lights, darkened taillight lenses and dual tailpipes. Alloy wheels hold 16-inch tires on the 1.8T. The VR6 edition gets 17-inchers, which are offered as an option on the 1.8T.

Interior

The upright styling of the GTI allows occupants to sit more vertically than in most small cars. Space is adequate for four adults, though five can fit inside. Height-adjustable rear headrests are standard. The area behind the rear seat holds 18 cubic feet of cargo, and 60/40-split, rear seatbacks fold for additional storage space; folding the seats creates 41.8 cubic feet of cargo area.

The instruments are backlit in a vibrant blue hue. The OnStar communication system is optional.

Under the Hood

GTI buyers have two engine choices. A turbocharged, intercooled, 1.8-liter four-cylinder in the 1.8T produces 180 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 173 pounds-feet of torque from 1,950 to 5,000 rpm. The GTI VR6 holds Volkswagen’s narrow-angle 2.8-liter V-6 engine, which generates 200 hp at 6,200 rpm and 195 pounds-feet of torque at 3,200 rpm.

A five-speed-manual gearbox is standard in the 1.8T, and a five-speed-automatic transmission with Tiptronic operation for manually selected gear changes is optional. Only a six-speed-manual gearbox is offered with the VR6.

Safety

Standard side curtain-type airbags protect the heads of passengers in side collisions. Side-impact airbags, all-disc antilock brakes and daytime running lights are also standard.

Driving Impressions

Performance is most notable in the 1.8T because of its 180-hp engine and Tiptronic transmission. Having so much energy at hand raises the fun quotient even higher, and this hatchback’s confident handling talents are even more appealing.