Used 2009 Volkswagen GLI Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 GLI, so we've included reviews for other years of the GLI since its last redesign.
compact, peppy, and fun
jackie leung, 12/26/2015
updated 06/05/2020
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've got a 2008 Jetta GLI since new and now have 250k miles. Although I wish I would've gotten the 4-door hatch (GTI) for more usable space, the trunk on the Jetta is indeed large for a compact car. Pros: power, handling, fun to drive (manual transmission), safety, fuel economy, and insurance costs Cons: firm ride, interior sound (loud with creaks and rattles), premium gasoline required, electrical and misc. problems The car has been pretty reliable with the exception of a catalytic converter failure (around 200k mi) that resulted in need of a tow. There are electrical problems such as the power door locks malfunctioning and light bulbs either burning out frequently or false warnings of bulbs burning out. I did have a fuel pressure sensor switch and PCV valve replaced under warranty. The car requires premium fuel and synthetic oil, which increases the maintenance cost. This car consumes half quart of oil every thousand miles or so nowadays. This car is direct injection so it has dirty intake valve deposit problems (a warning light came on at around 70k for an expensive cleaning I opted not to do). The ignition coils/spark plugs seem to go bad every 60k miles causing cylinder misfire error codes. Thermostat and air conditioning (fan) failed around 100k mi. Some good things are that the brake pads and clutch last forever, I've yet to replace the clutch, and only just replaced the rear brake pads at 150k miles. The front pads were replaced around 75k. This was my first VW and I did love it at first, but will be my last European car. They look and drive great but have many little issues that add up to frustration over time that have led me to seek different pastures for the future.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
62k Miles & Still goin' Strong.
jdubbs19, 03/07/2011
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I know the title of the review doesn't seem too impressive, but for all the VW nay-sayers it's saying something. This is my 2nd review on the car, the original being back in 12/2007. My overall stance on the car has not changed in the few years and 60,000 miles that have passed. My car still consumes very little to no oil within the 5k mile oil change intervals and has not had a mechanical break down. Some of the parts on the car have needed to be changed however (trunk gas struts, valve cover gasket & electronic door lock module). If you're looking at one second hand, check for oil leaks or slower performance/lower gas mileage (carbon buildup issue). Still 30ish MPG, still a sweet ride.
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08 GLI (Trigger)
Tidge, 07/02/2009
2008 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I loved the car when I first bought it, since I worked for Vw at the time. It handles great and has great throttle response. The color of the gauges at night are super cool. I like the ease of controls from the steering wheel instead of having to fiddle with the main controls. One thing that has bothered me is 8 months ago from July 1st 2009, is that it started having problems. Tonight while coming from work the display said stop engine, oil pressure etc. For an 08 GLI w/ 30K thats awful. Make sure you check you oil people. I drive only 5K per oil change as told to and Somehow I'm on the minimum part of dipstick!!
Worth all the research and test driving
Dr. Chino, 04/03/2009
2009 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I devoted about 3 months of research and test driving before I purchased my 09 GLI and my new ride hasn't let me down. The steering is wonderful! It carves twists and turns and actually begs for more! The acceleration is awesome! When I shift gears with the paddles, I leave everyone behind. Overall, what a GREAT and REWARDING purchase. Other cars I test drove and compared the GLI to were the Acura TSX, Nissan Altima V6, and Honda Accord V6 Coupe.
Outstanding Sport Sedan
Rich , 12/14/2007
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having owned a myriad of sport sedans, many costing tens of thousands more than this vehicle, I am more than impressed with this car. Excellent performance, including acceleration, braking and handling and the best steering of any car I have ever driven make this VW truly exceptional. It could easily sell for $10K more than the sticker and it would still be worth it.
Mr
zugisland, 06/27/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just picked up my new Platinum Gray GLI . Paid 25,850 plus tax for auto moon cold weather and all season mats . But mostly took advantage of the new VW 48 months at 0% financing. Anyway just hope anyone else can comment with moonroof open it sounds like a train on my hood. Is anyone experience this loud vibration. Whew. Didn't open moonroof during test drive due to hot during the day. LOL.
6 Speed - Keeper
Patrick S., 07/06/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I recommend this ride to anyone who wants a sporty/professional image without seeming too racy. This vehicle is great to take clients to lunch but, also ideal for fun weekend driving. I get about 23 miles per gallon and I drive city only!
Fun and Sporty Car
Tidge, 08/08/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I drive my car everyday. City mileage I get about 24.4 and city averaging 35.5 doing 70 mph. I like how the car just with the tap of the throttle likes to take off. It has great handling, very little under/over steer. The ESP option is great for dirt and gravel roads, helps with sticking to the road. Since New Years Eve of 2008 I have put al ot of miles on the car. It has held up with no problem and does extremely well on the highway. Gas mileage isn't what I'm used to from my last car I owned. Yet the car gets compliments often and will be with me for a long time.
YeeHaa
racerx, 08/22/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Awesome car and when you figure in the price it's a slam dunk. Nothing comes close for the money and the gas mileage is insane in relationship to power. This is what you need when gas is 4 bucks a gallon but still want luxury and performance and space.
Volkswagen Convert
JDubbs, 12/20/2007
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was sketchy about buying a VW, especially after owning a Honda for 8 trouble-free years. Despite my skepticism, I decided to take the plunge and I have been pleasently surprised. There have been no major issues to report after two months and 1700 miles of service. Gas mileage can be between low 20s to low 30s depending on how you drive it. The turbo 4 easily out-accelerates many cars on the road, and the car is assembled with good quality materials. Aside from some minor buzzes from some interior bits, my car has not consumed any oil, does not shake or stall. The car has been reliable so far (knock on wood), but then again I haven't abused it. Take care of it and it'll take care of you.
Fun ride, great mpg, huge trunk,
Nick, 10/15/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I don't think you can buy a car this good for the price. VW did a great job tuning the power band on this car. I also got the newest 2.0 CCTA TSI engine which is featured in the late 2008 GLI and the 2009 Jetta 2.0T models. This engine has the timing chain, rather than a belt, and a few other upgrades to the engine.This car is safe, powerful, handles well, comfortable, looks good, luxurious enough, and has a huge trunk. My family member used to own a 3 series BMW and this car is just is good for about $15,000 less. If you want to be the person who says "look at me"! and overpay just for a nameplate, get a BMW. If you want a great all around sports sedan and pay a lot less, check out the GLI
Needs more 12v plug ins
Dan, 01/09/2009
2008 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun fun to drive ! Solidly built car. Plenty of trunk space. ESP system helps on off ramp bursts. Traction control works like it should in snow.It corners on rails. I'm a little heavy on the foot and I still get 27 mpg.Very quiet engine to a point you'll forget you have 6 speeds . Kelly book also rated it as one of the highest resale value. Oh and it should come with speeding tickets included
2008 GLI is the best one yet!
gswonsn, 01/12/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have driven my 2008 GLI just over 5000 miles, including just over 3000 from Atlanta to San Francisco. It hasn't used any oil and I was averaged 25.75 mpg with both city and highway driving. It is more comfortable than the '07 that I had and it is so great to have the cruise control back on the turn signal stalk. I do miss the dual zone Climatronic, but I was easily able to stay comfortable during my drive. The seats are supportive enough that I never really tired even after one day of being in it for almost 14 hours straight. I couldn't believe that I was not more fatigued after that. It is fast, fun and I think pretty economical on gas. It is a real winner!
Great Bang for the Buck
jk65, 02/14/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I could not be more satisfied with my 2008 GLI, it has met or exceeded all my expectations of it thus far. I had a small issue with some interior bits (all cosmetic), but that was quickly fixed by the dealership, so it was never a problem. I've put about 4,000 miles on the beast in 2.5 months, and the only way I can describe the experience is that I look forward to, and find excuses for driving. This car is a great bargain with minimal equipment added, but even fully loaded (just under 30k or so) it's a steal. If you are looking at similar-sized sport sedans, then make sure you take a test-drive in the GLI, you WILL be converted.
AMAZING CAR
canadia_eh, 02/24/2011
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I hate driving jetta's but this is NOT a jetta. It drives better than all my families cars with includes audi's and lexus'. Everything about this car is amazing. I was just rear ended at high speeds and I am 100% fine. This car is so much fun to drive and I have YET to have a problem. I have over 50,000 miles on it already. I get 28-38 MPG mixed highway city.
VW Does it Again
04texag, 02/24/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had a 00 VW GTI VR6, and this GLI in my opinion captures the essence of that car, and builds upon what it did right. The exterior of the "jetta" is not my favorite, but this GLI has enough touches to make it sharp. This is a practical sedan that screams to be driven. I owned an 04 BMW 330i with lim. ed. perform package, this is essentially what this VW offers, and a far greater value. To have power to go, but still get great gas mileage is huge in today's economy. The dsg transmission is phenomenal. I'm still breaking mine in, but the speed of shifts is like driving an arcade video game car! My wife was not happy about the purchase, until she saw it and drove it for the first time!
My first German car
Pinoy, 02/29/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just purchased the VW GLI 08 and drove it everyday for 3 weeks now. This is my first German car coming from Japanese cars. So far, I love this car with its 200HP turbo engine; nice interior, 10 speaker premium sound system, sirius radio, and cool 18" wheels. This is also my first to drive a sports sedan with stiffer suspension where you really feel the road imperfections. I guess they will have to do a better job fixing the roads.
Great buy
Bill, 10/01/2007
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just came out of a 2006 GTI, 2-door into the 2008 GLI. The two extra doors are handy, so is the large trunk. So far I have absolutely no complaints. If you can spare the cash, the 18" all season performance tires are a must, as they add a nice touch to this car. Comparing it to earlier MKVs, I like the lower suspension, but it would have been nice if they kept the headlight pressure washers, the climate control, and the split front airvent knob.
Loving every minute
warren, 04/02/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I picked up my Black 08' GLI with manual transmission and the autobahn package this weekend and it has been a dream come true. The quality of this automobile is outstanding and you feel it the moment you shut the door. The engine is responsive and quick and the steering is sharp and precise. The fit and finish are outstanding. The stereo and displays are loud and clear. I had to travel to get my car and the 350 mile drive home was heaven and I even got 29 miles per gallon to boot! If you want the best Germany can offer for much less than a BMW, this is your car. You will not be disappointed.
Pleasantly shocked.
J-Dubbs19, 12/09/2007
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 2008 GLI after one month of service has been expectedly reliable and pleasant. So far my GLI does not burn oil, is not loud at start-up and does not shake/shimmy exhibit any other cause of concern that other VW owners have complained about. I drove my VW very gently for the break in period (yes, less than a month and i'm well over 1k miles) and followed all directions in the owners manual. I rarely punched it and everything is as expected. The interior does show lint little scuffs, but these are easy clean ups considering how beautiful the interior is. It averages 24mpg overall , and supposed to get better with age. No problems, and utter Farfeghnughen.
VolksWagen makes a GREAT Sports Sedan
MCO, 04/07/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While walking down the lot I noticed the GLI, test drove it and fell in love with the car and how it handled. WOW! This car is amazing. It's a true German car with all its high quality materials and engineering. The frame is solid steel and when you open and close the door you can feel it's a well built car and not a Japanese thin framed vehicle. The GLI comes with a four cylinder turbo engine, a DSG dual clutch transmission that can shift faster than any human. The sports suspension and the Pirelli tires allow the GLI to handle very much like a sports sedan which I was very impressed. I ended up purchasing the GLI since it was $10,000 cheaper than the Audi and handled better.
Awesome Ride
Mireyaco, 04/17/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For six months I shopped, researched, test drove many cars. I was leaning towards an Audi A4 with an S Package but decided to check out the vdubs too. It's a true German car with all it's high quality materials and engineering. The frame is solid steel and when you open and close the door you can feel its a well built car and not a Japanese thin framed vehicle. The GLI comes with a turbo engine, a DSG dual clutch transmission that can shift faster than any human. The sport's suspension and the Pirelli tires make the GLI handle nicely. I ended up purchasing the GLI two months ago and have no regrets. It handles like the Audi A4 but $10,000 cheaper and better on the pocket book.
Awesome car
Josh, 04/22/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I leased my Black 6-speed manual GLI starting in March and absolutely love the car. I really wanted a GTI, but the dealer didn't have any, and the test drive of the GLI sold me. The engine is perfect for this car, and the gas mileage is surprisingly good considering the power the engine has (26-27 mpg for the first 1000 miles). The steering and handling feel tight, and the ride is very well controlled. Coming from a Honda, the VW's interior is worlds superior in terms of amenities and build quality. The interior lighting, interlagos cloth seats, HID headlights, red break calipers, 8-way adjustable seats and their comfort and details that really set this car apart. Recommended!
Very happy customer
DanB, 04/24/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my car about 2 months ago - I couldn't be happier. The DSG is a blast. I also like the sound of the engine when in Sport mode... I was comparing the Subaru WRX and the GLI for quite a while. The only advantage of the WRX is the AWD. Everything else is better in the GLI. The biggest difference is the interior - the WRX looks like a ToysRus car inside. Plus GLI has wider rubber and much nicer rims, cleaner and nicer exterior look and I also got a decent deal on it. I like driving it hard on curvy roads - it has lots of grip and I am having a blast. Is the first car I've had that after two months I still can't wait to get behind the wheel.
Outstanding Performance and Build Quality
imacVW, 05/11/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is an absolute blast to drive! I drive with a very heavy foot and still average 23-25 MPG (premium 93 gasoline). I'm 6'5" and weigh 220 lbs, yet I have plenty of leg room. The adjustable seat height is probably one of my favorite features. My wife enjoys the feel of an SUV so she raises the seat all the way up when she drives and says it gives her a feeling of being higher up than a typical sedan. The steering is extremely responsive even under heavy acceleration. If you are unfamiliar with turbo's, there is a bit of lag noticeable when letting off the brake from a complete stop. It's a normal function of any turbo and just takes some getting used to. Love the car! Highly recommend!
Way better than my last GLI!!
Boba Fett, 06/24/2009
2009 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had owned a 2003 GLI which hurt to trade in for a larger vehicle (family). I was in the market for a second vehicle and knew I had to check out the 09 GLI. I drove it once and that was it. Right away you feel the German engineering in the solid build it has. The acceleration of the 4 cylinder turbo is awesome. The gas mileage is great, got up to 33 mpg at one time! I have the autobahn package. The GLI stitching is cool and the leather bucket seats keep you in place. The 6 speed manual makes it that much more fun to drive. For the price you get a car comparable to a BMW 3 series.
Beetle Evolution
ncc1701, 08/02/2009
2009 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Car is powerful, good handling for its class, spacious. Brazilian made brings solid engineering, mid-to-high quality materials and a lot of cost-cutting. on the long drive - cannot find a good sitting pose, despite 8 way seat moves. Justify the name JETTA CITY
Amazing Car!
MarkV GLI, 02/11/2010
2009 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My original intent was to purchase an Acura TSX. However, after driving a friends VW Jetta, I reconsidered. After some research, I found the VW offered virtually the same features for almost the same price points. I picked up the VW GLI option (sports package) with the 6 speed manual and Bluetooth. This car is far more fun to drive than my Lexus ES300, in fact, it is the closest thing to my Honda VFR750 motorcycle for fun and performance!
First Test Drove
First Test Drove, 03/15/2008
2008 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've mainly purchased BMWs and Audis, probably a good reason for that. My wife and I test drove the 08 GLI 4dr with DSG. Transmission was fairly jumpy in my mind, breaks were not as solid, and the handling was very loose. Of course I'm coming from a 06 325i and comparing it to this VW. In my mind it isn't as sporty as some people think it is or handles as well. A vehicle that compares well to BMW that is not an Audi or Mercedes, is the 08 Mini Cooper S AM. I was very impressed with this vehicle and probably will purchase one. And I know that VW makes Audi and etc. But transmissions are different, i don't think the DSG compares well enough to Audi's tiptronic nor BWM's SMG. Sorry.
Awesome Car for the $
CRS150, 08/04/2009
2009 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought my '09 GLI from a local dealer that specializes in off-lease VW & Audi cars. Car was actually a buy-back from VW for an engine problem. Car only had 2K miles, full warranty and a clear title. Roughly 35% off MSRP was too good to pass-up. I have read of reliability issues with VW but owned a late 90's Jetta that never had an issue so I'm not worried...many, many miles of warranty left. Car is a blast to drive and the highway acceleration is fantatstic for a 4 cyl car. DSG transmission is also a very nice piece of engineering. A little notchy on take- off but if you understand the engineering, it's really not an issue. Only had the car for 10 days but 0 regrets so far.