by Brian Scotto

HOMAGE MUST BE PAID TO THOSE who paved the way. When talking cars, especially small and fast econoboxes, you must praise the ’83 VW Rabbit GTi. It started the sport-compact tuning scene while putting a hurting on the big boys like big brother Porsche. And now the fifth-generation GTi is trying to shoehorn back into the Rabbit’s running shoes.

As you open the driver’s door, the German quality is evident...it’s smooth with a mechanical precision you’d expect from a Brietling. Plop down in the leather seats and grab the D-shaped steering wheel. Start the car and enjoy its distinctive purr—not too loud, but far from sissy. Engage first gear and straighten the right foot, no need to hold on too tight, though—it’s quick, not scary fast. But don’t turn the page yet; with a 0-60 time of seven seconds, it’s blazing for the buck. Granted, what the turbocharged 2.0l power plant lacks in straight-out grunt, it makes up for in the bends. The GTi eats up turns with a light, surefooted feel. Plus the low- to mid-end torque makes this pocket rocket easy to drive fast day-to-day, unlike its Japanese counterparts, which require driving ticks of the rev limiter to ever feel the pressure in ya chest.

Okay, so the GTi is a blast to drive, and it rides like it’s on rails—that’s what it’s supposed to do. Right? What it’s not supposed to do is rival a BMW on build quality...or is it? Either way, the GTi’s interior is stunning. Crank up the radio: it hits hard without sounding tinny. Play with the Recaro seats and telescoping steering column to find the perfect seating position. The hot hatch got you heated? Cool down with the dual-zone Climatronic. Then fold down the rear seats and go food shopping, but whatever you do, don’t let anyone call this a grocery-getter. If they do, introduce them to “your fast” backhand.

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