The Volkswagen GTI is fun to drive and that's where it shines. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is responsive and offers a broad plateau of torque. Maximum torque is available from a mere 1800 rpm up to 5000 rpm, so you can putter comfortably around town in fourth gear without having to overwork your right arm searching for the engine's sweet spot as you maneuver in city traffic. While the car operates on regular unleaded, premium fuel is recommended to achieve maximum performance.

When you want to downshift for curves on mountain roads or to make a pass on a two-lane in the country, the clutch is very light with easy pickup, the shifter has short and sure throws, and the engine spins into gear immediately. On winding pavement, we preferred the six-speed manual, which allowed us to feel truly connected to car and road.

The DSG automatic functions essentially as a computer-controlled manual that shifts at the speed of electrons. With two clutches and two countershafts, it can literally engage the next gear while simultaneously disengaging the last; which is not possible with conventional manual or automatic transmissions. Volkswagen claims acceleration performance is better with the DSG than with the manual gearbox; 0-60 mph takes just 6.9 seconds with the DSG, vs. a 7.2-second 0-60 with the manual. The DSG allows manual shifting using shifter paddles on the steering wheel.

We've found the DSG a marvelous device, especially in heavy, stop-and-go traffic.

Fuel economy for the DSG-equipped GTI is an EPA-rated City/Highway 22/29 mpg; slightly better than the 21/29 mpg of the manual-shift car.

Steering is quick and precise, and the suspension is responsiveness personified. The GTI benefits from MacPherson struts in front and a four-link suspension in the rear. We found the response of even the all-season Continental tires to be up to enthusiast standards, though we think that serious enthusiasts will want to consider the larger 18-inch wheels and high-performance summer tires. A 35.8-foot turning circle makes the GTI maneuverable in tight quarters.

Even though nearly 60 percent of the car's 3100 pounds is supported by the front wheels, the GTI does not exhibit the tendency to understeer so prevalent in most front-wheel-drive cars. To help the driver keep the car on course, the GTI comes with electronic stability control (ESP) as well as traction control.

Big disc brakes stop the GTI quickly and surely. ABS comes standard, helping the driver maintain steering control while braking. Brake Assist helps the driver maintain full braking pressure in an emergency stopping situation. Electronic brake-force distribution balances braking front to rear for quicker, more stable braking.

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