1997 Volkswagen GTI Hatchback Review | Edmunds.com
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1997 Volkswagen GTI Hatchback

 
 
 
Edmunds Review (13) MPG

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Volkswagen GTI Features and Specs

Features & Specs

  • Engine 2.0 L Inline 4-cylinder
  • Drivetrain Front wheel drive
  • Transmission 5-speed manual
  • Horse Power 115 hp @ 5400 rpm
  • Fuel Economy 21/29 mpg
  • Bluetooth No
  • Navigation No
  • Heated Seats No
See All Features & Specs
 

Review of the 1997 Volkswagen GTI

  • Info is not yet available.

  • Safety

  • Pros

    Excellent road manners, roomy interior, fun to drive, speedy VR6.

  • Cons

    Some controls and symbols difficult to decipher, staid styling, underpowered four-cylinder engine.

  • What's New for 1997

    For 1997, the GTI VR6 gets new alloy wheels and a revised suspension that has been lowered by 10mm and includes stiffer shock absorbers,…

 
What Others Are Saying

Customer Reviews

  Average Consumer Rating (15 total reviews)

1996 gti 5 speed -

by on
Vehicle: 1996 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback

I bought my 1996 GTI (5 speed)last year (2008)with approx 95k miles on it. I love this car! She won't quit! Had one problem with her where she died on the road: turns out with the ac on full blast (soon after starting) in high heat of South FL, blew the coil circuit. VWs are notorious for electrical problems as they age, but they are usual suspects as with any car: coil/coil circuit (ie...wiring), ignition switch, spark plugs (do not use platinum 4 prongs-they don't last). If you do a little research to pinpoint the usual problems - you'll be able to get her in prime shape inexpensively (VW Depot in FL are the best).



Lower your expectations

by on
Vehicle: 1996 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback

As much fun as my car is to drive, I've had ongoing problems since purchasing it as a 2nd owner initially with 95,000 miles. I have invested $$ to keep the car up to par, but to no avail as minor and major issues keep cropping up. Repairs as well as parts can be expensive so beware if you are financially strapped. It's unfortunate that Volkswagen which wrote the book on quality has now lost that winning formula.



Mpg commuter

by on
Vehicle: 1996 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback

I needed a good commuter for my new job which requires I commute 100 miles per day round trip. I decided on a 96 GTI 2.0 because MPG is as important as being fun to drive. It turns out I am averaging 30-32 MPG. I was lucky to find an unmodified, well maintained w/ an almost new interior for it's 13 year/123,000 age. I love this little car, I find myself not wanting to drive my 06' SS/SC. The 2.0 engine mated to the 5 speed is wonderful, the car is as tight (structurally) as a new car. I cruise at 70-80 mph without any drama. I more pleased than I expected I would be and parts are cheap. I high recommend 2.0 GTI's for anyone looking good MPGs, excellent hauling space and a fun daily driver!


 
 

Full 1997 Volkswagen GTI Review

What's New for 1997

For 1997, the GTI VR6 gets new alloy wheels and a revised suspension that has been lowered by 10mm and includes stiffer shock absorbers, springs and stabilizer bars. Meanwhile, the 115-horsepower inline four that powers the base GTI is fitted with a new cylinder head for smoother power delivery. A cargo area light is now standard in the base model, and both models get a new high-mounted center brake light and open-door warning reflectors for all doors. Late in the 1997 model year, Volkswagen offers a limited run of the GTI VR6 Driver's Edition, which comes with a special set of seven-spoke alloys; an even lower, stiffer suspension with progressive antiroll bars; red brake calipers; chrome-tipped exhaust pipes; special cloth upholstery and floor mats; silver-faced gauges; a round aluminum/rubber shift knob; red stitching on the leather-wraps for the steering wheel, hand brake and shift boot and deluxe door sill covers embossed with the "GTI" name.

 

Talk About The 1997 GTI



1997 Volkswagen GTI Discussions See all Started By

nightmancometh
nightmancometh
12-14-2009
Volkswagen Gti: Reliability Experiences
I recently test drove the 2010 GTI and was blown away. It's everything I want in a car....

600kgolfgt
600kgolfgt
06-09-2007
Volkswagen Gti Engine Problems
Your GTI will run fine on 87 octane gas...

bretfraz
bretfraz
08-04-2003
Vw Brand Experience - Good Or Bad?
Sounds like a family members experience. Has owned 3 VW's since 1997, a Jetta, a GTI, and a Passat. The Jetta and Passat have been pretty good but the GTI was problematic. The window regulator fail...


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More on the 1997 GTI

 
 
Gas Mileage

EPA-Rated MPG

  • 21
  • cty
/
  • 29
  • highway
Calculate Yearly Fuel Costs
 

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