The eighth-generation Volkswagen GTI is the newest edition of the front-wheel-drive German hatchback.

With its slick styling and low slung stance, the GTI looks like a European sports car costing thousands more than its reasonable starting price. 

The GTI comes in three trim levels:

• S — $30,540 MSRP
• SE — $35,290 MSRP
• Autobahn — $38,990 MSRP

The SE model strikes an excellent middle ground between the S and Autobahn trims, adding a sunroof, a 480-watt Harman Kardon audio system, an upgraded infotainment system, and an illuminated grille.

The GTI comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, but for $800, you can opt for Volkswagen's seven-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission. 

Other standard features include:

• LED headlights.
• Dual digital displays.
• Dual-zone climate control.
• An all-new dashboard layout.

VW also adds standard safety features like driver-assistance, which includes lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

Available upgrades include a driver's seat with memory settings, leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, and ventilated front seats.

The VW GTI features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with ample horsepower and torque.

With such a potent powertrain, the GTI sprints to 60 miles per hour like a sports car when equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. While the engine plays a part in such excellent acceleration, credit also goes to the electronic limited-slip differential and brake-based torque-vectoring.

Not only does the GTI offer world-class straight-line performance, but it also has excellent fuel economy. The GTI achieves an EPA-rated mpg in the mid 20s for city and the mid 30s for highway when equipped with the standard six-speed manual gearbox. 

And a high-performance braking system helps haul the GTI to a stop like a race car.

Handling and chassis tuning has always been a strong suit for the GTI. The GTI has quick handling ready to tackle any twisty road while still offering decent ride quality for extended trips.

While the stock suspension works well, the optional adaptive dampers further enhance the GTI's road manners.

When you're searching for a used compact car like the GTI, finding one in great shape can be a hassle. Even if an advertisement looks nice, how can you be sure a pre-owned vehicle isn't hiding mechanical issues? But when you buy your next car from Shift, you don't have to worry about any of that. Shift's certified mechanics perform extensive 150-point inspections on every car and have complete vehicle history reports, so you know your used car feels as good as new.

Shift's website has a large selection of fully inspected vehicles located across the country that are ready to go. The website is user-friendly, and you'll be able to find various makes and models to suit your needs and budget. And you can purchase any of our vehicles from the comfort of your own home for the most convenient buying experience. With Shift's expertise and experience selling used cars, you can rest assured your used car purchase will be good to go from the moment you take delivery. Whether you want a Ford Focus, a Subaru Outback, or a Toyota Prius, Shift has what you need.

The GTI’s interior blends old and new, with its traditional plaid seats and various technology features.

The gauges are now fully digital, with a 10.3-inch screen relaying essential information about your speed, RPM, engine temperature, and more. But no matter the model year, the GTI has a sophisticated appearance that makes driving comfortable.

And the infotainment system features connectivity options like Apple Carplay and Android Auto. 

Where the GTI interior particularly shines is in its available cargo room. While the trunk holds an impressive amount of gear or groceries, when you fold down the rear seats, it nearly doubles.

Whether you're making a grocery run or taking a weekend getaway, the GTI has ample space.

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is an excellent vehicle for those who want a little bit of everything: style, performance, practicality, and efficiency. 

The GTI's sleek exterior styling has a striking silhouette that makes it look much more expensive. 

The combination of Volkswagen's venerable turbo four-cylinder, smooth transmissions, and refined chassis create a premium hatchback that's equally at home on spirited drives or long highway cruises.

But along with the GTI's excellent performance comes the efficiency of achieving excellent EPA-rated fuel economy. 

The interior of the VW GTI lets you drive in comfort while also enjoying the latest technology like Apple Carplay and Android Auto. And the plaid seats add a nice retro touch for those who like a traditional look. 

The VW Golf GTI displays its versatility with its abundant storage space that helps you transport just about anything, be it sporting equipment or household supplies. 

And with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning, you can drive with peace of mind. 

When it's time for a new-to-you car, be it a GTI or another make or model, you'll probably want to sell your old one. But that can be a time-consuming hassle, and how can you know if you receive fair value? But when selling your car to Shift, there's no need to worry. All you'll have to do is enter the make, model, year, and mileage on Shift's easy-to-use website, and you'll instantly receive a purchase offer that's valid for seven days.

You can get a fair offer, better than at the dealership, driven by powerful machine learning algorithms and tons of data. And with Shift, there is no need to spend the extra time waxing and washing the car. A little dirt won’t affect the quote, as we fully detail the cars ourselves anyway before listing them for sale.

With your old car sold, you're free to browse Shift's extensive selection of fully inspected vehicles. We take the stress out of car buying with our fair, no-haggle prices driven by powerful machine-learning algorithms and tons of data.