The VW GTI is the original "hot hatch," a phrase that refers to the fact that it is a high-performance hatchback that combines practicality with fun. The first GTI was introduced in Europe in 1976 and was brought to the U.S. in 1984 as the Rabbit GTI. Since then, there have been plenty of competitors designed to take on the GTI. In fact, the hot hatch segment is one the most hotly contested. Currently, Ford makes one of the Volkswagen GTI's closest competitors with with the Focus ST. Unfortunately, this European-built car is not available for U.S. enthusiasts to buy, since Ford has decided not to import it.
Engines
The Volkswagen GTI is powered by a turbocharged, intercooled, 2.0-liter engine that produces 210 horsepower at 5,300 rpm. The motor's torque output is plentiful, with 207 pounds available as early as 1,700 rpm. The GTI's engine block is cast iron. It also features direct fuel injection.
The Focus ST is also powered by a turbocharged motor, though it displaces more space with a 2.5-liter, Volvo sourced inline-5 that produces 222 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 236 pounds of torque as early as 1,600 rpm.
Styling
Both the VW GTI and the Focus ST are available as three- or five-door hatchbacks. Both the GTI and the Focus ST received face-lifts for the 2009 model year. Both models can be ordered with optional larger 18-inch alloy wheels.
Gearboxes
The GTI comes with either a conventional 6-speed transmission or the optional DSG paddle shift gearbox. The Focus ST comes only with a conventional 6-speed manual transmission.
Dimensions
The GTI weighs 2,900 lbs while the Focus is a bit heavier at 3,200 lbs.
Performance
According to VW, the GTI goes from zero to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds and tops out at 149 mph. The Focus ST just barely bests these figures with a zero to 62 time of 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph.
Fuel Economy
The GTI has a combined fuel economy rating of 32 mpg while the Focus is rated with a combined fuel economy of 30.4 mpg.
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