The Volkswagen GLI compact sedan has gotten high grades for its precise handling, powerful turbocharged engine, comfortable ride, long list of standard safety features, and high quality interiors.
Although largely unchanged for 2009, new standard features this year are heated seats and heated windshield-washer nozzles (were options previously). And Volkswagen's new navigation system is now available as an option.
Other Standard Features:
Standard features on the well-equipped 2009 GLI include full power accessories, cruise control, air conditioning, heated side mirrors, 17 inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, aggressively bolstered front seats, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat and a 10-speaker sound system with a CD changer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Available Options:
The optional Autobahn Package adds a sunroof, a leather interior and driver power lumbar support. The Sport Styling kit includes a number of exterior styling add-ons.
Available stand-alone options for the GLI include 18 inch alloy wheels as well as Volkswagen's new voice-activated touchscreen navigation system featuring a 30GB hard drive, SD memory card slot and a USB port.
Engines And Gas Mileage:
Powering the 2009 Volkswagen GLI is a turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. It's coupled with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed DSG transmission (provides both manual-style shifting via steering-wheel buttons or a fully automatic operation). The GLI is quick, going from a standstill to 60 mph in about 8 seconds.
The EPA gas mileage ratings for a DSG-equipped GLI are a very respectable 22 mpg city and 29 mpg on the highway. The manual version is rated at 21 mpg city and 31 highway. Models sold in California-emissions states meet the PZEV (partial zero-emissions vehicle) emissions standard.
Safety:
Standard safety features on the 2009 GLI include antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags. Rear side airbags are available as an option.
In government crash testing, the 2009 Volkswagen GLI earned perfect five-star ratings for both front and rear-occupant protection in side impacts, and four stars for protection of front-seat occupants in head-on impacts.
Interior:
The material and build quality of the GLI's cabin is top-notch. It boasts a clean design with an upscale look and feel. More performance-style features include metallic-trimed pedals and a thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel. And the front seats have firm side bolsters to snugly hold their occupants during more spirited driving.
The new GLI also doesn't skimp on storage space, offering an impressive 16 cubic feet of trunk capacity.
Drive:
The drive of the GLI is a nice blend of both ride comfort and sporty performance, provided via its well-balanced suspension. With its strong turbo engine, driving is still surprisingly quiet. Yet with its precise handling and smooth transmission, this is an athletic vehicle with lots to offer budget-conscious driving enthusiasts.
Price:
How To Buy A New Volkswagen GLI At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 GLI, here's a technique that buys one at the lowest possible price, especially given the current slow economic environment.
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