A Look Back at the History of the VW Golf GTI

A Celebratory Review of One of the World’s Most Iconic Hatchbacks

With the exception of the Volkswagen Beetle, there is perhaps no Volkswagen more iconic, more recognizable, than the VW Golf GTI. Since its initial release in the 1970s, the VW Golf GTI has quickly ascended to iconic status with each subsequent iteration.

What started off as an unlikely underdog quickly transformed into a slick and speedy vehicle capable of keeping up with the likes of Porsche. The VW Golf GTI is now one of the main vehicles in the Volkswagen stable that drivers and reviewers look forward to, and the newest iteration – the Mk8 – is no exception.

Before we dive into the current day VW Golf GTI and which new car dealership near you carries it, let’s take a look back at this iconic hatchback through the years.

The VW Golf GTI (Mark 1) – 1976

The legendary status of the VW Golf GTI started all the way back in the mid 1970s. Utilizing a 1.6L inline-four engine, the Mk1 had 110 horsepower under the hood and could reach speeds up to 113 mph. What really blew people’s minds was the fact that this first Golf GTI could take down an entry-level Porsche on a speed test. Even though this was the very first Golf GTI, it put other automakers on notice. VW had finally figured out how to make fast cars.

The VW Golf GTI (Mark 2) – 1984

Drivers had to wait a good eight years before they got their next taste of the VW Golf GTI. In addition to having more curb weight, this iteration was two inches wider and seven inches longer than the Mk1. It paired a 5-speed gearbox with a four-cylinder engine, which yielded 102 horsepower.

In hindsight, the Mk2 was not a significant improvement over the MK1; they had similar top speeds and acceleration. It wouldn’t be until VW introduced a Golf GTI Mk2 16V edition that we saw some serious improvements. This version could reach 60 mph in just under 8 seconds and had 137 horsepower under the hood.

The VW Golf GTI (Mark 3) – 1991

Yet again, there was another long wait for the next VW Golf GTI. This iteration saw some cosmetic modifications in both the overall body style, the headlights, and the red grill accents (which became optional rather than standard).

The very first release of the Mk3 provided drivers with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that yielded 115 horsepower, which wasn’t much of an improvement over the MK2. However, years later, another MK3 was released that featured a 2.8L VR6 which increased the horsepower to 172. This meant that the Mk3 could go from zero to 60 in about 6.7 seconds – a huge improvement over the prior iteration.

The VW Golf GTI (Mark 4) – 1998

In 1998, VW released the Mk4 iteration of the Golf GTI. VW gave it a more modern look by reducing the boxy features seen on earlier models. This was also the first iteration of the VW Golf GTI that didn’t feature the signature red GTI accents, which was viewed as a controversial choice at the time.

The MK4 expanded its wheelbase by 1.5 inches, was nearly 3 inches longer, and increased its curb weight by about 200 pounds. It was available in two engine types upon its initial release: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (115 hp) and a 2.8-liter narrow-angle VR6 (174 hp).

The VW Golf GTI (Mark 5) – 2004

2004 was a comeback year of sorts for the VW Golf GTI. VW decided to bring back the red accents on the grill along with the tartan upholstery pattern and GTI badging. The body style of the Mk5 got an overhaul with a shorter, curved front end along with a honeycomb patterned radiator grill.

The Mk5 came with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine that produced 207 lb-ft. of torque and 200 horsepower. A couple years later in 2006, VW released a 30th anniversary edition of the VW Golf GTI that provided drivers with 230 horsepower; however, this iteration never made it to the US market.

The VW Golf GTI (Mark 6) – 2009

We’ll be honest with you here…VW did not make many significant changes between the Mk5 and the Mk6. The reason? The Mk5 performed so well that VW engineers and designers didn’t want to mess with perfection too much. Keeping that in mind, VW engineers did add in an electronic differential lock (XDS) for better grip, a new exhaust system featuring two tailpipes, and a low power-to weight-ratio.

The American edition of the Mk6 VW Golf GTI featured a 2.0L turbo-four engine that yielded 200 horsepower. International editions of the Mk6 delivered 210 horsepower with a top speed of 150 mph. A speed demon at heart, the Mk6 could go from zero to 60 in under 7 seconds.

The VW Golf GTI (Mark 7) – 2015

Ever since the initial release of the VW Golf GTI, each subsequent version got heavier than the previous one. The Mk7 edition marked the first time in the vehicle’s history that it got lighter in curb weight. Additionally, VW engineers and designers made some significant structural improvements to strengthen its build and improve its performance and handling.

With the VW Golf GTI Mk7 Performance Package Model, drivers had 230 horsepower at their beck and call with the ability to hit 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds. This also happened to be the first iteration of the VW Golf GTI that could go faster than 150 mph, earning it certified “whip status.”

The VW Golf GTI (Mark 8) – 2021

Finally, the current day Golf GTI. The Mk8 edition saw some significant design and performance improvements – a complete overhaul, really. This is the first iteration of the VW Golf GTI that is a four-door hatchback as opposed to the traditional two-door style. Those who are familiar with prior iterations of the Golf GTI will notice this most recent version is exceptionally roomy in the cabin.

The Mk8 iteration of the Golf GTI comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that yields 273 lb-ft. of torque and 241 horsepower. And, of course, this one is a hair faster than its predecessor, able to hit a top speed of 155 mph. It’s the fastest most powerful Golf GTI yet.

Trying to Find a Volkswagen Golf Near You? VW SouthTowne Can Help!

Are you interested in a test drive of the brand-new VW Golf GTI? The best way to arrange that is by contacting our dealership directly via the contact form on our website. Simply provide some basic information and let us know that you’d like to be contacted when the Mk8 iteration of the VW Golf GTI arrives at our dealership.

Not yet in the market for the VW Golf GTI? No problem!

As the leading new car dealership near you in South Jordan, we carry a wide variety of SUVs and sedans meant to suit any driving style and family dynamic. We also carry a wide variety of used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles that have undergone a 100+ point inspection. Finally, we’re always running great deals on VW products and services and our specials section.

The best way to get behind the wheel of a VW today is by visiting our dealership at VW SouthTowne, conveniently located at 11000 South 290 West. You can also call (801) 988-5825 to set an appointment.

Are you a current VW owner in need of routine maintenance, repairs, or service? Contact the Volkswagen service center today to book your appointment.

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