2009 Volkswagen GLI Review
2009 Volkswagen GLI Review
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
+61
Used GLI for sale
Appraise This CarSee Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Powerful turbo engine, comfortable ride, tight handling, many standard safety features, quality interior materials, solid build quality.
Cons
- Somewhat bland exterior styling doesn't match the car's sporty drivetrain, options can quickly drive up the price.
What’s new
For 2009, the Volkswagen GLI gets a few more features but remains otherwise unchanged. All trim levels now come standard with cold-weather features such as heated seats and heated windshield-washer nozzles. Additionally, the GLI gets Volkswagen's new navigation system as an option.
Edmunds says
Upholding the Germans' reputation for precise engineering and quality materials, the 2009 Volkswagen GLI deserves strong consideration from those looking for a sport sedan in the $25,000-$30,000 price range.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$211/mo for GLI Base
GLI Base
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
For many years, there existed a void in the market between "econosport" compact sedans (typically made by Japanese manufacturers) and pricier luxury sport sedans (normally produced by Germans). That void was filled a few years ago with the introduction of the Volkswagen GLI.
Bridging the gap between sporty compact sedans and luxury models, the GLI (it was called the Jetta GLI until last year) offers the taut, energetic feel of a German-engineered sedan, but at a more attainable price. The GLI's 200-horsepower turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine provides plenty of punch, while a firm suspension and communicative steering bring joy to those who appreciate a strong connection to the road. Also added to the mix is a nicely tailored cabin, VW's brilliant "DSG" automated manual transmission and an optional navigation system.
With pricing in the $25,000-$30K range, the 2009 Volkswagen GLI does exist in its own special niche of sorts. One could also consider the less expensive but equally impressive Honda Civic Si sedan, the all-wheel-drive Subaru WRX and Legacy GT models and the turbocharged Volvo S40 T5. There's also Acura's redesigned TSX to think about. Of this bunch, though, we think VW's GLI stands tall, and it's an excellent choice for a small, fun-to-drive sport sedan.
Performance & mpg
Only one engine is available on the 2009 Volkswagen GLI: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 200 hp and 207 pound-feet of torque. It's available with a choice of either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed DSG transmission. The latter is an automated manual that allows either ultra-quick manual-style shifting via steering-wheel buttons or fully automatic operation. The GLI can sprint to 60 mph in about 8 seconds flat. EPA fuel economy estimates for a DSG-equipped GLI stand at 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined. Models sold in California and California-emissions states meet the strict PZEV (partial zero-emissions vehicle) emissions standard.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags are all standard. Side airbags for rear passengers are optional.
In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash tests, the 2009 Volkswagen GLI received four out of five stars for protection of front-seat occupants in head-on collisions and five stars for front- and rear-occupant protection in side impacts. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the GLI earned the top rating of "Good" in both frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests.
Driving
The GLI's well-sorted suspension strikes a near-perfect balance between a comfortable ride and sporty handling. And the ride is surprisingly quiet. Between the precise handling, strong turbo engine and smooth-shifting DSG transmission, the 2009 Volkswagen GLI is a well-rounded choice for enthusiasts on a budget.
Interior
The cabin of the VW GLI exudes top-notch quality. Clean European design and an exacting fit and finish give it an upscale flair. Performance-oriented touches include a thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel and metallic-trimmed pedals. Firm side bolsters on the front seats hold both driver and passenger snug around corners -- perhaps a bit too snug for those of wide frame. Otherwise, seating for four adults is comfortable all around, and the rear seat offers a folding armrest and a split-folding feature. This year's new and improved navigation system now features an intuitive touchscreen interface and a 30GB hard drive that not only decreases processing time (compared to last year's unit) but also devotes 20GB to digital music storage. Trunk capacity measures an impressive 16 cubic feet.
2009 Volkswagen GLI models
The 2009 Volkswagen GLI compact sedan comes standard with bi-xenon headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, metallic interior trim, aggressively bolstered front seats, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, heated side mirrors, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat and a 10-speaker audio system with a CD changer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. New for 2009 are standard cold-weather features that were previously optional, including heated windshield-washer nozzles and heated front seats.
Ordering the optional Autobahn Package gets you a sunroof, leather upholstery and power lumbar support for the driver. There's also a Sport Styling kit that includes various exterior styling add-ons. Stand-alone options include 18-inch alloy wheels and Volkswagen's new voice-activated touchscreen navigation system with an integrated 30GB hard drive, SD memory card slot and USB port.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 Volkswagen GLI.
5 star(87%)
4 star(6%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
30 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
3 out of 5 stars
compact, peppy, and fun
jackie leung, 12/26/2015
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
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.
4.38 out of 5 stars
62k Miles & Still goin' Strong.
jdubbs19, 03/07/2011
2008 Volkswagen GLI 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 04/08 (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
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.
4.75 out of 5 stars
08 GLI (Trigger)
Tidge, 07/02/2009
2008 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
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!!
5 out of 5 stars
Worth all the research and test driving
Dr. Chino, 04/03/2009
2009 Volkswagen GLI PZEV 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
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.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Volkswagen GLI, so we've included reviews for other years of the GLI since its last redesign.
2009 GLI Highlights
PZEV
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $24,770 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 25 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $211/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the GLI include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
People who viewed this also viewed
4.4 average Rating out of 5 reviews. |
Starting at $21,435 |
5.0 average Rating out of 2 reviews. |
Starting at $31,965 |
4.8 average Rating out of 39 reviews. |
Starting at $23,950 |
Related Used 2009 Volkswagen GLI info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Used Honda Ridgeline 2010
- Used Genesis G90 2020
- Used Mazda CX-9 2021
- Used Nissan Juke 2017
- Used Chevrolet Bolt EUV 2022
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Volkswagen GLI 2020
- Used Volkswagen Jetta GLI 2019
- Used Volkswagen Jetta GLI 2013
- Used Volkswagen GLI 2022
- Used Volkswagen Jetta GLI 2012
- Used Volkswagen GLI 2021
- Used Volkswagen GLI 2014
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- Audi Audi RS3
- CT5 Blackwing
- Cadillac Celestiq
- Escalade Iq
- Volvo E X90
- M3 CS
- Bentley Bentayga SUV
- Cadillac Escalade
- Audi E Tron GT
- M3
Research other models of Volkswagen
- Golf Golf R
- Volkswagen VW Atlas
- Volkswagen I D4
- 2023 Volkswagen Taos
- 2023 Volkswagen ID.4
- Volkswagen Jetta 2023
- Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport For Sale
- Volkswagen Taos S
- VW Jetta Car
- 2023 Tiguan