2004 Volkswagen GTI Review
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
Need a sport coupe that won't beat you up during the weekday commute? This is it.
Pros
Potent R32 model, fun to drive, reasonably priced, lots of standard equipment, premium cabin materials, utility of hatchback design, available six-speed manual.
Cons
1.8T and VR6 models aren't really suited for at-the-limit driving, dated styling.
What's New for 2004
The 237-hp R32 makes its debut for 2004 complete with a six-speed manual transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive. The GTI sports restyled 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels. There's also a new fuel cap warning light.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
fast and ugly
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 3 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Volkswagen GTI 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
This has got to be the ugliest car I have ever owned!! However, this little car will pass almost anything on the road. I picked up the car with 7k miles (it now has 60k) and have had no problems, even after having the computer, exhaust and intake re-worked for more power. It loves to be punished! Loads of interior room is a bonus for such a small car. This is my first vw and I must say I'm impressed. Fuel economy is great if you keep your foot out of the turbo, but what fun is that?
Favorite Features
Turbo, fuel economy, interior space
Suggested Improvements
Open the engine up and give it more power and better fuel economy from the factory. It also has rear-end float at high speeds, a bit scary!
Bangin' for the Buck
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Volkswagen GTI 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
I purchased my '04 in May of '04. Immediately installed a chip. Noticeable jump to 215 horses still with good gas milage. Excellent handling I take turns confidently well above the posted mph (have to know the car and its limits). K&N Also a must. Easily modifiable without going into the engine block. Was going to buy a BMW. Wife has 328 5 spd. Believe it or not I like my GTI more. May still buy a 5 series or a 3 convertible but a VW may still be in the future. I would buy VW again. Knock on wood, no mechanical failure. Did have a sun roof problem resolved and under warranty.
Favorite Features
Mods, great highway and commuter car. comfortable seats(6'2.5") great pickup. Better than my 90 mustang LX
Suggested Improvements
Cheap arm rest, broke in 3 months of ownership, needs 6th gear. Needs bigger intercooler from factory. Continue to work on electrical gremlins.
Great car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Volkswagen GTI 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
This is one of the best cars I have owned. I came from an Integra GS-R that was nice but this car out does it in almost every way. The interior is wonderful, the materials used are top notch. Think of it as an Audi without the price. It is solid as a rock as well as being quick and torquey (I know it's not a word). I couldn't recommend it more!!
Favorite Features
The interior and the 1.8t.
Suggested Improvements
The new one is too big/tall, can't wait for the new Scirocco (if it makes it to the states).
My Little Pocket Rocket
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Volkswagen GTI 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
My GTI was already lowered and had larger wheels and other suspension components installed by the previous owner so the ride is bit stiff, but it corners and jumps up from a stop like a champ! I'm totally sold on German engineering. I came from a Mustang background and while this car can't touch a Mustang in a straight line, when it comes to the full sense of drivability and fit and finish, the Mustang with all its plastic pieces and jittery noises can't compete with the GTI. I won't even mention my gas mileage improvement... that goes without saying. An all around great little car and an absolute pleasure to own.
Favorite Features
Turbocharged engine, leather interior, sunroof, heated seats, instant torque off the line, steering and braking.
Suggested Improvements
I'm satisfied with what I've got!
Not Bad For a Box Car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 6 |
| Comfort: | 4 | Interior Design: | 6 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 10 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Volkswagen GTI 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
First, this car is a great travel car, the gas mileage is amazing! Performance and handling is great as long as you learn to get past the turbo lag (thank goodness for the 5-speed manual!). Interior could use some work. Plastic started popping apart at the 2 year mark and the seat does not accommodate heavier people which makes it uncomfortable to drive! It is not too bad with one child the way the front seats flip up and plenty of interior room! You can carry almost anything in this car and get there fast and for a factory radio it is great! I am not a big fan of box shaped cars but this one I have to say (since my hubby loved it) is not bad for a box car!
Favorite Features
Handling, safety, speed, performance aside from turbo lag, space, telescoping steering wheel (loved that when I was pregnant!). All around good car for the size and money!
Suggested Improvements
Use a better plastic in the interior, fix the turbo lag, and make seats that fit bigger people!
View Pricing for Other Years
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