The Golf.

Winner of this award category three years in a row. The Volkswagen Golf GTI blends intoxicating everyday performance with agile dynamics. And it does it all on a budget, while not forgetting the environment or safety.

Equipped with a 2.0 litre, four cylinder, 16 valve, DOHC, FSI direct injected, turbo charged power plant, the GTI generates an impressive list of stats: 147kW @ 5,100rpm. 280Nm concentrated where it counts - between 1,800 - 5,000rpm. 0 - 100 in 6.9 seconds (DSG). All of which translates to an optimal sports torque band, lightning response, extreme efficiency, low emissions and pure GTI drive excitement.

Total control, dynamic road-feel, responsive handling and superb driveability - GTI performance is built on an arsenal of Volkswagen drive technologies. Electro-mechanical power-steering 'programmed' with a GTI sports map for a more direct road feel. Choice of feisty, hands on 6 speed manual transmission, or velvet smooth power delivery from an automatic, 6 speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG).

All round, vented disc brakes (312mm front and 286mm rear) with audaciously red callipers. Sports-tuned Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) for better control and the assurance that you'll never waste a single kW of power on spinning rubber.

The Golf GTI takes a lead from its predecessor and combines space, styling, technology and character to create an irresistible driving environment. From the brushed aluminium highlights throughout the interior, gear knob, sill scuff plates, inserts in dashboard and doors, standard aux-in interface for connecting a mobile audio player - to the unique sports seats and signature leather, three-spoke steering wheel, the GTI is attitude all over.

The Golf GTI is equipped with a full compliment of active and passive safety technologies: Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP) to keep things on the straight and narrow, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), brake assist and Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD) make sure that taming the GTI is both fun and immediate.

The information, pictures, colours, and specifications contained within the Volkswagen Group Australia website are presented as a general guide to the products and accessories offered by Volkswagen Group Australia. Although every effort has been made to ensure that such information is correct and up to date, no warrant is provided that all such information is reliable, complete, accurate or without error. In some cases pictures of overseas models may be shown as a guide. Therefore, Volkswagen Group Australia does not accept liability for damages of any kind resulting from the access or use of this site and its contents. * Fuel consumption figures according to Australian Design Rule (ADR) 81/01.