Used 1996 Volkswagen GTI Hatchback Consumer Reviews
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1996 GTI 5 speed - awesome car
jennP, 09/22/2009
1996 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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).
A Great Deal
VWenthusiast, 05/04/2004
1996 Volkswagen GTI VR6 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had nothing but great experiences with this car. In the three years of ownership I have not had one problem with this car. Very reliable and is a thrill to drive every time I get in it.
mpg commuter
modern commuter, 10/13/2008
1996 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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!
Electrical and other problems
nomorevws, 12/17/2007
1996 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car and think it is fun to drive. It looks so cute and gets a lot of comments, even now that it has 100,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, it has taken a lot of money to keep it running. The brakes needed replaced entirely, costing over $1000, at 60,000 miles. The license surround broke the day I bought it. The exhaust needed replaced twice in 4 years. It had a persistant oil pressure problem that couldn't be figured out by numerous shops. Warning lights come on when it gets wet and shops can't seem to fix it. The car nearly caught fire when the electrical system melted, costing about $2000 to fix. The water pump, thermostat, and harmonic balancer just quit. I won't buy another VW.
GTI VR6 is great car
DrJeff, 10/06/2002
1996 Volkswagen GTI VR6 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought my VR6 new. It is an absolute blast to drive. Never had a single problem with it except a stubborn electric passenger window. 50,000 miles now. Would buy another Volkswagen in a heart
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