Powerband Sport Golf

Powerband Sport Golf

The 2007 MkV Volkswagen GTI, as it's name implies is the 5th generation of the Golf GTI series of cars that Volkswagen started producing in 1976. All GTI iterations have been based off the entry level Golf (also known as the Rabbit in the US), but which have been modified in sporting ways to enhance the appearance, handling, and performance of the base Golf. One feature that both the first generation (MkI) and the fifth generation (MkV) have in common is the use of red and gray plaid cloth upholstering of the seats. Another shared feature that denotes the family lineage is a red trim line in the front grill.

The MkV GTI wears many hats because of the versatile features designed into the car. It is a hatchback, which makes it very easy to load a reasonable amount of cargo into the rear. 15.1 cubic feet of storage space exists when all seats remain upright. This can be substantially increased when the rear 60/40 bench seat is folded down.

Two choices of transmission are available in the MkV GTI: 1) Standard six-speed manual 2) Optional DSG twin-clutch manual. Both are excellent choices, fitting the sporty nature of the vehicle. The DSG transmission has extremely quick, nearly seamless shifting from gear to gear. A manual shift mode is available in addition to automatic for around town driving. For those feeling adventurous, a sport mode exists which will hold each gear to redline (6500 rpm!) before up shifting to make sure you always are in the power band.

The MkV GTI has 2.0 liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection. Power figures are 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. These numbers may seem modest, but the torque curve this engine provides is what has earned it a place on Ward's Best Engine List multiple times. From roughly 1800 rpm to the 6500 rpm redline the torque curve is very flat. The result of this is fantastic, providing effortless acceleration. Passing at highway speeds is a non-issue in every gear.

Depending on optional equipment, the original price of the MkV GTI varied from $22,000-$27,000. In all specifications, this yielded a great value for the money. For under $30,000 (sometimes well under) one could get a very sporty car which comfortably seats 4 adults, carries a load of groceries, gets 30 miles to the gallon, and puts a smile on your face!

It is 2010 (model year) now, and a new kid is on the block, the MkVI GTI, an update of the MkV. Surely it too carries the torch forward for the Volkswagen GTI family.

Automatic Can Opener

Gizmo Can Opener

Powerband Sport Golf

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