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2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI

2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI
Save up to $7,487
See All For Sale
MSRP range
$26,415 - $36,170
Edmunds Rating
4.5 out of 5.0
Consumer Rating
(12)
New
2018
2017
Used
2016
2015

Pros

  • Quick, zippy acceleration guarantees grins for miles
  • Sporty handling makes fun work of twisting roads
  • Roomy hatchback design offers excellent passenger and cargo versatility
  • High-quality interior materials look and feel great

Cons

  • Now-common safety aids limited to top two trims
  • Standard high-performance tires contribute to a stiff ride quality
  • Some competitors offer more performance for a lower price
  • Transmission doesn't shift smoothly at low speeds
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Save as much as $7,487

2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI pricing

in Ashburn, VA
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2018 Golf GTI
msrp$26,415
starting price
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Top consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI.

12 reviews
Get This car Immediately (See what I did there?)
Colin, 3/12/2018
After my 22 year old son bought his first car, on his own dime that is, my wife and I had to step back and take notice. He had talked about wanting a GTI since middle school and when it came time to trade the 1990 Saab 900 Turbo in that mom and dad had given him to drive through part of high school and college, he jumped at the chance to buy a GTI. His 2013 Wolfsburg edition was a different sort of animal than his Saab was...and it was also a tempting ride for my wife and I. A year after he bought the car, we traded in our 2013 Juke Nismo and picked up a 2018 S model. Since the age of 16, I have owned well over 50 different vehicles, most of them being some type of enthusiast car. From a 1966 Ford Mustang convertible to a 2001 GMC Yukon to a 2006 BMW 325i to a 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth, I've owned something of everything. I have experienced luxury (1992 Mercedes 300 AMG) to the basest car available (1986 Golf with a 3 speed automatic). I've owned slow (Any Isuzu Trooper or Mitsubishi Montero) and I've owned fast (2006 Nissan 350Z or 2001 BMW Z3M). But this GTI trumps them all. And it isn't even close. We bought the base model because it was the cheapest and offered everything we wanted in the car. While we would have loved LED headlights and a sunroof, the difference in price and possible repair cost offset that desire. I took a bath on my Juke when I traded it in, rolling about $2500 in negative equity into the loan...and that was after the down payment. Apparently when a manufacturer announces that a particular model is being discontinued, values plummet, even when that model is the enthusiast version and the most expensive. So one minor nit-pick with the car is that it is on the pricier side of things. But once you drive one, you will know why. The motor in this car is phenomenal. So much torque that you can pull away from nearly any speed in any gear. And speaking of transmission... the 6 speed manual in this car? Like hot butter. Seamless. Perfect. The Juke had a fantastic tranny. Snickety-snick through the gears. The GTI is a step above which I was not sure was possible. It is apparently. With Android Auto, there is no need for XM or navigation on this base model. Just plug your phone in and use the infotainment center to listen to what you want. Navigation through whatever app you want to use is right at your fingertips on the 6.5 inch screen. Heated seats are standard as is a back up camera that folks back into the rear hatch, protecting it from the elements and making it easy to see, even on an icy morning where a regular camera would be iced over or a rainy day when the camera would be smeared with rain water. And those plaid seats? Iconic and comfortable. Though I would normally prefer leather, these cloth seats are incredible. They are supportive, firm and look the part. Overall, this car is the most balanced car I have ever owned. It does everything well. This isn't just a jack of all trades auto, it's a master of all trades. Get This car Immediately (GTI). Seriously.
Nice Upgrade from the SE
Brian Campbell, 5/12/2018
The main reasons I went with this trim over the SE was to gain Adaptive Cruise control and to keep the Fender stereo, which is only available on the Autobahn in 2018. The implementation of Android Auto is probably my favorite feature of this car - I don't even use the built-in navigation or satellite radio. The adaptive cruise and other driving aids are well done, with the exception of Lane keeping assist, which, if left to its own devices, wanders from side-to-side in the lane like a drunk driver. Other nice to haves include adaptive dampers, automatic climate control, a more comfortable 12-way adjustable driver's seat, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and self-parking. (I was skeptical about the utility of that last one, but it works well and assures I don't get "curb rash" when parallel parking.) Gripes are few: From prior experience with my 2015 model, I know that I'll have to replace the standard Bridgestone Potenza RE97s at around 20,000 miles, as they start to have crappy wet traction at that point. Also, there were a couple of build issues, including a sunroof rattle and a minor trim piece that fell off, which are being addressed by the dealer. Overall, I'm very happy with the decision to go with the Autobahn over the SE and would recommend it to anyone who can afford the additional coin.
Goft GTI SE / Leather
Mike, 4/12/2018
Bought the vehicle 3 weeks ago. The main reason for the choice is to have a smaller sized car with "peppy / sporty" driving characteristics for the city. The GTI is a fun little car and with the hatchback design still easy to use for storing some bulky items (55" TV in box fit perfect). Particular for city (San Fran) parking it is perfect. I like the acceleration and sportiness. The suspension is on the stiff side and potholes are for sure felt thru the body. Overall very good visibility and easy to get in and out too. 4 people fit nicely into the car. If anyone looks for a sporty compact vehicle I recommend the Golf GTI
My fun car
Don, 7/12/2018
Traded my 2016 GTI S model in to get the 2018 SE version. I loved my 2016 model, had absolutely no problems with it at all. The longer warranty and new safety features on the 2018 model were the primary factors behind my decision to let go of the 2016 version. I really like the new LED headlights and tail lights, the larger brakes and the electronic limited slip differential bring a noticeable improvement over the my previous car. I wish that I had upgraded to the summer tires on both cars rather than stay with the stock versions. However I do like the ride and performance of the Hankooks that came on the 2018 car over the Bridgestones that came on the 2016 version. My 2016 car had the manual transmission which I loved but I went with the DSG transmission on 2018 which really is a better fit for me over the long run. While I'm not unhappy with the mpg I am seeing on the 2018 I got about 3-4 mpg better with the manual than I am getting with the DSG transmission. The low speed performance of the DSG is much better than I experienced with earlier versions on Jetta's that our family owned. I had been wanting a GTI for 25 years+ when I got the 2016 model and have not been disappointed with either car. Love taking it for drives on twisty mountain roads but frankly look forward to commuting to the office in it everyday as well.
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Features & Specs

MSRP
$31,570
MPG
24 city / 32 hwy
Seats 5
6-speed automated manual
Gas
220 hp @ 4700 rpm
MSRP
$30,470
MPG
25 city / 33 hwy
Seats 5
6-speed manual
Gas
220 hp @ 4700 rpm
MSRP
$26,415
MPG
25 city / 33 hwy
Seats 5
6-speed manual
Gas
220 hp @ 4700 rpm
MSRP
$36,170
MPG
24 city / 32 hwy
Seats 5
6-speed automated manual
Gas
220 hp @ 4700 rpm
See all 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Golf GTI safety features:

Forward Collision Warning
Warns the driver if a front collision, including with pedestrians, seems imminent. If necessary, can apply automatic emergency braking.
Maneuver Braking
Embedded within the front and rear parking sensor system, automatically applies the brakes if a collision with a nearby object seems likely.
Lane Assist
Warns the driver of vehicles in blind spots with a flashing LED. Can also apply countersteering to nudge the vehicle back into its lane.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
  • Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
    Overall4 / 5
    Driver4 / 5
    Passenger5 / 5
  • Side Crash Rating
    Overall5 / 5
  • Side Barrier Rating
    Overall5 / 5
    Driver5 / 5
    Passenger5 / 5
  • Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
    Front Seat5 / 5
    Back Seat5 / 5
  • Rollover
    Rollover4 / 5
    Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
    Risk Of Rollover11.1%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
  • Side Impact Test
    Good
  • Roof Strength Test
    Good
  • Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
    Good
  • IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
    Good
  • Moderate Overlap Front Test
    Good

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2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI for Sale

Volkswagen Golf GTI 2018 Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
New 2018
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Autobahn
(63)
Lindsay Volkswagen of Dulles
3.8 mi away
MSRP$37,340
Est.Loan: $610/mo
Great Deal!
Great Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
Tornado Red 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn FWD 6-Speed DSG Automatic with Tiptronic 2.0L TSI 32/24 Highway/City MPG
Volkswagen Golf GTI 2018 S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
New 2018
Volkswagen Golf GTI
S
(2)
Fairfax Volkswagen
15.1 mi away
MSRP$27,545
Est.Loan: $447/mo
Great Deal!
Great Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2.0T S Recent Arrival! Priced below KBB Fair Purchase Price! 33/25 Highway/City MPG All conditions subject to credit approval. All offers plus Tax, Tags, Freight ($820 for sedans and $910 for trucks for new vehicles), processing fee of $ 685. Dealer installed options additional. Prices includes rebates and incentives available to all customers and may be in lieu of low APR programs. Stock photo colors, options and trim levels may vary. Vehicles subject to prior sale. Not responsible for typographical errors. Specifications, features, safety and warranty data are based on what is available as standard specs/features per trim level; for the designated model-year, and may not apply to vehicles with added packages or options. Final price must be verified by management. See dealer for details. Vehicles may be in-transit to dealer. Please call to confirm status.
Volkswagen Golf GTI 2018 S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
New 2018
Volkswagen Golf GTI
S
(6)
Stohlman Volkswagen
15.3 mi away
MSRP$27,685
Est.Loan: $448/mo
Great Deal!
Great Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2.0T S Factory MSRP: $27,685 $6,638 off MSRP! Priced below KBB Fair Purchase Price! 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI 2.0T S 4D Hatchback Pure White 6-Speed Manual FWD 2.0L TSI Please contact the New Vehicle Sales Department @ 703-893-2990 for Volkswagen and Subaru questions you may have about any of the vehicles!!! See you Soon! 25/33mpg 33/25 Highway/City MPG Price includes: $1,000 - Summer Smile Bonus. Exp. 09/04/2018
More about the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI

It's easy to understand the appeal of a compact hatchback. It combines the small footprint and thrifty fuel efficiency of a compact car with cargo capacity to rival the appeal of some big sedans. Yet that practicality doesn't have to be attached to a car that is boring. The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI falls into a subgenre of the compact hatchbacks once dubbed the "hot hatch." These variants had more gusto under the hood and refined, sport-tuned chassis to enhance athleticism and deliver driving thrills. And this performance bent comes at no loss to versatility.

The GTI represents the latest chapter in a story that dates back to the 1980s, when the GTI first appeared in the U.S. and arguably started the hot-hatch era. Through rabid enthusiast clubs and forums, the GTI has achieved cultlike status over the past three-plus decades. Spend time behind the wheel of the latest GTI, and you'll understand why its fans are so enthusiastic.

Based on VW's Golf, the GTI shares its roomy interior, impressive materials and commendable build quality. From there, the GTI adds sizzle in the form of a feisty turbocharged engine, a taut suspension, and sporty cabin upgrades such as heavily bolstered sport seats and a thick-rimmed, flat-bottom steering wheel. Visual effects include 18-inch alloy wheels, a unique lower front fascia and a chrome-tipped dual exhaust.

Whether you opt for the manual or the dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GTI is both swift (0-60 mph in the mid-6 seconds) and fairly fuel-efficient. The EPA estimates range from 27 mpg combined (24 city/32 highway) for the automatic transmission and 28 mpg combined (25 city/33 highway) for the manual. As you might expect, the GTI has a noticeably firmer ride than the standard Golf. But this is the trade-off for increased athleticism.

The GTI is available in three trim levels, ranging from the base S to the loaded Autobahn. The S comes with a generous standard features list, highlighted by heated front seats and a rearview camera. The Autobahn offers features such as a navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and an adaptive suspension, which allows both a softer ride for commuting on rough roads and a tighter setting for curvy roads. The SE trim sits in between.

However you might want to equip your ideal GTI, you will end up with a car that draws a nice balance between driving enjoyment and everyday practicality. Let Edmunds help you find the perfect GTI for your driveway.

2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Overview

The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI is offered in the following submodels: . Available styles include SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM), SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M), S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M), Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM), S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM), and Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M).

What do people think of the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 Golf GTI 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 Golf GTI.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Golf GTI featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI?
2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)

The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $37,065. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) is trending $7,487 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $7,487 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$29,578.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) is20.2% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 46 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $35,965. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is trending $7,203 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $7,203 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$28,762.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is20% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 55 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $31,685. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is trending $7,003 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $7,003 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$24,682.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is22.1% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 51 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)

The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $27,310. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is trending $6,898 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $6,898 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$20,412.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is25.3% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 48 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)

The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $28,730. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) is trending $6,961 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $6,961 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$21,770.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) is24.2% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 43 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)

The 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $32,885. The average price paid for a new 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) is trending $7,159 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $7,159 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$25,726.

The average savings for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) is21.8% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 39 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

Which 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTIS are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI for sale near. There are currently 371 new 2018 Golf GTIS listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $24,999 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $8,343 on a used or CPO 2018 Golf GTI available from a dealership near you.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

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