Sporty Youthful and Cheaper Than a BMW
Promise not to tell anyone and I will share with you the fountain of youth - the 2005 Volkswagen GTI VR6. Few cars are capable of
shedding the advancing years generally visible on one's midsection like VW's pocket rocket, now approaching senior status in its 20th year of production, but you wouldn't know it.
Throughout the last two decades and four GTI incarnations, Volkswagen has continually improved and perfected the practical yet sporty 3-door Golf-based package. In fact it's so good, especially the VR6 edition, that it would be difficult to build a business case justifying the extra thousands needed to slot a 3-Series Bimmer in the drive.
There isn't much that's new in the '05 GTI, as it remains unchanged from last year. Those wishing to acquire something more cutting-edge best wait for the anticipated October release of the all-new 2006 GTI, but understand
that you will be passing on a true classic. Although the outer shape of the 2005 GTI is less than, shall we say daring, I find it quite appealing thanks to the symmetry of its clean lines, massive side windows and stocky, squat appearance.
In addition to being inoffensive to almost everyone, the GTI's utilitarian shape contributes greatly to its practicality. Its large windows provide wonderful visibility and its folding rear seats open the cube-shaped cargo area up very effectively, certainly more so than in sleeker shaped competitors.
Promise not to tell anyone and I will share with you the fountain of youth - the 2005 Volkswagen GTI VR6. Few cars are capable of
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| The 2005 Volkswagen GTI VR6 could very well be the fountain of youth. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Throughout the last two decades and four GTI incarnations, Volkswagen has continually improved and perfected the practical yet sporty 3-door Golf-based package. In fact it's so good, especially the VR6 edition, that it would be difficult to build a business case justifying the extra thousands needed to slot a 3-Series Bimmer in the drive.
There isn't much that's new in the '05 GTI, as it remains unchanged from last year. Those wishing to acquire something more cutting-edge best wait for the anticipated October release of the all-new 2006 GTI, but understand
 |
| There isn't much that's new in the '05 GTI, as it remains unchanged from last year. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
In addition to being inoffensive to almost everyone, the GTI's utilitarian shape contributes greatly to its practicality. Its large windows provide wonderful visibility and its folding rear seats open the cube-shaped cargo area up very effectively, certainly more so than in sleeker shaped competitors.