The 2.0 and TDI models deliver comfort, handling, quality, practicality, economy, and value. GTI 1.8 T may be relatively expensive when measured against other compacts, but it's more fun to drive and more refined than other cars in its class. If you enjoy driving, this car is a great choice, but we recommend getting it with the manual gearbox. Moving up to GTI VR6 provides plenty of grins and puts you in a performance class with upscale sports sedans and sports cars.

In addition to all this, Volkswagen offers not only its standard four-year/50,000-mile warranty, but also coverage of wear and tear items and adjustments during the initial 12 months or 12,000 miles of ownership. Additional coverage includes a five-year/60,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, four years/50,000 miles of 24-hour roadside assistance, and protection against rust-through for 12 years.