Brief history of the GTI

A1

Originally badged as the "Rabbit: was a very small car by today's standards - the GTI version was introduced to the US in 1983 - already having established itself in Europe as the original "hot hatch". (Hatch since it is a 3-door hatchback). The GTI had some simple additions (and the GTI badge and red trim) to improve it's sportiness and appearance.

A2

The GTI really came into it's own in it's second incarnation. In Europe, both the better breathing 16v (as opposed to 8v) and G60 supercharge engine variants were available. In the US, the 16V engine produced more power in a high revving engine and various visual and performance upgrades such as allow wheels.

A3

The 4 cylinder 8 valve A3 GTI was the worst power-to-weight ratio GTI yet based on the A3 golf. The VR6 version was more fun with more power through the rev range and a smoother engine.

A4

By the A4 VW had introduced the 1.8T (turbo) engine across their range of vehicles. However a number of special editions were introduced such as the 337, 20th anniversary edition and most significantly the R32.

R32

The R32 was a limited edition of the A4 Golf sold in the US in a very limited number (5000). The R32 sported the uprated 3.2L VR6 engine special alloys, lowered suspension, a special tuned-for-sound exhaust system and road-hugging 4 wheel drive. The R32 has held it's value on eBay and in the second hand market surprisingly well due to it's short supply.

A5

VW is now marketing the Golf as the "Rabbit" again and appears to have produced the best GTI yet including the Direct Shift Gear box and advertised by the really fun "Fast" commercials. VW have promised an limited R32 version in the US again.