At the heart of the 2006 Volkswagen GTI is the same engine that has drawn praise for its use in the redesigned VW Passat, the overhauled Jetta GLI, and Audi models like the new A3 and updated A4. For this application, the 2.0-liter, dual overhead cam, 16-valve, turbocharged four-shooter generates 200 horsepower at 5,100 rpm and 207 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,800 rpm, and is ULEV (ultra-low emissions) rated. It doesn’t take much to get from idle to 1,800 rpm, where all of that twist is available, so drivers are guaranteed healthy off-the-line launches with the GTI. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual with a leather and alloy-wrapped knob, while a Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) six-speed automatic is optional and adds only 34 pounds to the 3,308-lb. curb weight. This is the same unit offered on a variety of more expensive Audi models, and can be operated in either normal or sport modes with steering wheel-mounted paddles or a gentle nudge up or down of the shifter. Of course, you can leave the gear selector in drive and worry only about the throttle, brakes, and steering, but that’s not as much fun. With the DSG, VW claims a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds.

Supporting the capable powertrain is a fully-independent sport-tuned suspension system, with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup in the rear. Front and rear stabilizer bars are standard. Four-wheel disc brakes, vented up front and solid out back, work with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution to slow things down, including the standard 225/45 summer tires and multi-spoke 17-inch alloys (all-season tires are a no-cost option). Above it all is a body that is up to 35 percent more rigid than that of the outgoing GTI.