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Volkswagen Golf GTI 40th anniversary When it was first introduced back in the 1970’s, few people could have predicted the overwhelming popularity the Volkswagen Golf GTI would experience in the decades to come. Known now for its sporty capability and dynamic drive, the Golf GTI has come to be a significant staple among the brand. This year, we celebrate the Volkswagen Golf GTI 40th anniversary with look back at the model's impressive past. The original GTI The original 1976 Volkswagen Golf GTI quickly became a fan-favorite thanks to its incredible performance and deliberate interior touches. Some of its interior highlights included a golf-ball shifter knob and sporty plaid patterned seats. It also included a red stripe in the grille, giving it a more aggressive look than people were used to seeing in the small car segment at the time. Under the hood of the original GTI sat a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engine that created 108 horsepower. Combine this with the model’s 1,786 lb. curb weight, and the GTI made it easy to get performance on a bargain. Through the years Over the decades, Volkswagen rolled out several different versions of the Golf GTI, but one specific model that stands out is the 1987 Golf GTI 16V. This was the first GTI model to feature a 16-valve engine under its hood. This new 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine was able to boost the GTI’s power output to a nice 123 horsepower, making the GTI a heavy-hitter in its segment. By 1992, Volkswagen had enlarged the GTI’s engine to 2 liters for even further improvement to its performance. At this point, the GTI was able to produce 134 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. VW Golf GTI today Today, the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI continues to offer the powerful performance and sporty drive that the model’s been known for through the decades. The sporty hatchback features a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine that’s not only powerful, but affordable at the fuel pump as well. For 2016, The GTI is able to put out an impressive 220 horsepower, while also achieving a 25 city / 34 highway mpg rating. The upcoming 2017 Golf GTI is said to feature new high-value trim options, offering drivers a wider range of technology and feature at a more affordable price. 2016 Golf GTI at Speedcraft Volkswagen If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI, we here at Speedcraft Volkswagen have a wide variety of models currently available on our lot for you to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a specific trim level or even color, there’s a good chance that we’ve got it here. To begin your search, all you have to do is view our inventory here on our site. After you’ve narrowed down your choices, just give us a call or fill out the form on this page to schedule an appointment for a test drive. We’re sure that once you experience the powerful, sporty drive and overall versatility of the new Golf GTI, you won’t want to settle for any other hatchback. What do you think of the history behind the Volkswagen Golf GTI? Comment below!

Volkswagen Golf GTI 40th anniversary When it was first introduced back in the 1970’s, few people could have predicted the overwhelming popularity the Volkswagen Golf GTI would experience in the decades to come. Known now for its sporty capability and dynamic drive, the Golf GTI has come to be a significant staple among the brand. This year, we celebrate the Volkswagen Golf GTI 40th anniversary with look back at the model's impressive past. The original GTI The original 1976 Volkswagen Golf GTI quickly became a fan-favorite thanks to its incredible performance and deliberate interior touches. Some of its interior highlights included a golf-ball shifter knob and sporty plaid patterned seats. It also included a red stripe in the grille, giving it a more aggressive look than people were used to seeing in the small car segment at the time. Under the hood of the original GTI sat a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engine that created 108 horsepower. Combine this with the model’s 1,786 lb. curb weight, and the GTI made it easy to get performance on a bargain. Through the years Over the decades, Volkswagen rolled out several different versions of the Golf GTI, but one specific model that stands out is the 1987 Golf GTI 16V. This was the first GTI model to feature a 16-valve engine under its hood. This new 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine was able to boost the GTI’s power output to a nice 123 horsepower, making the GTI a heavy-hitter in its segment. By 1992, Volkswagen had enlarged the GTI’s engine to 2 liters for even further improvement to its performance. At this point, the GTI was able to produce 134 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. VW Golf GTI today Today, the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI continues to offer the powerful performance and sporty drive that the model’s been known for through the decades. The sporty hatchback features a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine that’s not only powerful, but affordable at the fuel pump as well. For 2016, The GTI is able to put out an impressive 220 horsepower, while also achieving a 25 city / 34 highway mpg rating. The upcoming 2017 Golf GTI is said to feature new high-value trim options, offering drivers a wider range of technology and feature at a more affordable price. 2016 Golf GTI at Speedcraft Volkswagen If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI, we here at Speedcraft Volkswagen have a wide variety of models currently available on our lot for you to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a specific trim level or even color, there’s a good chance that we’ve got it here. To begin your search, all you have to do is view our inventory here on our site. After you’ve narrowed down your choices, just give us a call or fill out the form on this page to schedule an appointment for a test drive. We’re sure that once you experience the powerful, sporty drive and overall versatility of the new Golf GTI, you won’t want to settle for any other hatchback. What do you think of the history behind the Volkswagen Golf GTI? Comment below!

Volkswagen IIHS Top Safety Pick Drivers know that Volkswagen puts the safety of its drivers first. That’s why it’s no surprise to see that multiple Volkswagen models have received recognition for their excellent safety features. Adding on to its ever-growing list of vehicles certified as Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Volkswagen 2016 Golf and Jetta families have received the highest safety rating. While being named a Top Safety Pick is becoming more and more common, it is still a great challenge for automakers due to the strict nature of the IIHS’s testing system. To achieve this rating, vehicles need to get “Good” ratings, which stand for the highest grade possible, in categories including the moderate overlap, front, side, roof and head restrain tests. Vehicles also need to get at least an “Acceptable” rating on the small-overlap test, which is considered an extremely difficult test. Finally, the vehicle’s automatic crash-prevention system needs to be rated as either “Advanced” or “Superior” by tests. Golf and Jetta safety systems The 2016 Jetta and Golf family performed well on the IIHS tests, achieving “Good” ratings across the board and an “Advanced” crash prevention rating. Much of its success is thanks to the new for 2016 Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking system. Other new additions to the Volkswagen models include Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning. Take a look at the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI and its crash safety system in action in its IIHS safety test for crash testing in the video below: If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of one of these great vehicles, take a look at our available inventory. We have a wide selection of 2015 Volkswagen Jetta and Golf vehicles to choose from. If you’d like to take one out for a test drive, contact us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment for you

Volkswagen IIHS Top Safety Pick Drivers know that Volkswagen puts the safety of its drivers first. That’s why it’s no surprise to see that multiple Volkswagen models have received recognition for their excellent safety features. Adding on to its ever-growing list of vehicles certified as Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Volkswagen 2016 Golf and Jetta families have received the highest safety rating. While being named a Top Safety Pick is becoming more and more common, it is still a great challenge for automakers due to the strict nature of the IIHS’s testing system. To achieve this rating, vehicles need to get “Good” ratings, which stand for the highest grade possible, in categories including the moderate overlap, front, side, roof and head restrain tests. Vehicles also need to get at least an “Acceptable” rating on the small-overlap test, which is considered an extremely difficult test. Finally, the vehicle’s automatic crash-prevention system needs to be rated as either “Advanced” or “Superior” by tests. Golf and Jetta safety systems The 2016 Jetta and Golf family performed well on the IIHS tests, achieving “Good” ratings across the board and an “Advanced” crash prevention rating. Much of its success is thanks to the new for 2016 Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking system. Other new additions to the Volkswagen models include Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning. Take a look at the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI and its crash safety system in action in its IIHS safety test for crash testing in the video below: If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of one of these great vehicles, take a look at our available inventory. We have a wide selection of 2015 Volkswagen Jetta and Golf vehicles to choose from. If you’d like to take one out for a test drive, contact us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment for you

2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs Golf R The Golf is known for being a great vehicle for both families and commuters alike. Thanks to its fuel efficient engine and spacious interior, it’s ready to take on whatever task is at hand. On top of being fuel efficient and driver and passenger-friendly, two members of the Golf family hold the title of Volkswagen’s powerhouses. We here at Speedcraft Volkswagen are interested to see how these vehicles fare against each other. That’s why we’ve compiled this 2016 Golf GTI vs Golf R comparison. The Golf R and the GTI are the two most powerful members of the Golf family and offer impressive power that other hatchbacks can’t stand up to. Both of these vehicles have a lot to give both in capability and in comfort. We’ve taken a closer look at what we think are important factors for drivers to consider when deciding between the two hatchbacks. To make it easier for you, we’ve compiled important specs for both models in the chart below. 2016 Golf R This year, if you find yourself behind the wheel of the 2016 Volkswagen Golf R, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a hatchback that has more of what you’re looking for. At its heart runs a 2-liter, turbocharged engine capable of a power output not seen in a Volkswagen before. Behind the wheel, you’re in for a responsive, engaging drive with its six-speed manual transmission. If you’re looking for the most power out of your vehicle, the Golf R is a great choice. While its fuel efficiency isn’t as high as the GTI, the 23 / 30 mph it does get is definitely impressive for the size engine that it sports. 2016 Golf GTI While the 2016 Volkswagen Golf  GTI definitely offers an impressive amount of power, the truly remarkable part about it is its affordability. Whether we’re talking its ticket price or everyday spending on gas, the GTI is a powerhouse that you could find in anyone’s driveway. Drivers looking for a money saver that’s going to be able to handle the road ahead will find that that the GTI is more than capable. Questions? Feel free to contact us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen or take a look at the rest of our blog for more information. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of one of these models, take a look at the models available in our inventory. If any of them are what you’re looking for, let us know and we’ll schedule a test drive. Let us know if we don’t have the model you’re looking for and we’ll make a note to let you know when it becomes available. Which do you prefer – the Golf R or the GTI? Comment below!

2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs Golf R The Golf is known for being a great vehicle for both families and commuters alike. Thanks to its fuel efficient engine and spacious interior, it’s ready to take on whatever task is at hand. On top of being fuel efficient and driver and passenger-friendly, two members of the Golf family hold the title of Volkswagen’s powerhouses. We here at Speedcraft Volkswagen are interested to see how these vehicles fare against each other. That’s why we’ve compiled this 2016 Golf GTI vs Golf R comparison. The Golf R and the GTI are the two most powerful members of the Golf family and offer impressive power that other hatchbacks can’t stand up to. Both of these vehicles have a lot to give both in capability and in comfort. We’ve taken a closer look at what we think are important factors for drivers to consider when deciding between the two hatchbacks. To make it easier for you, we’ve compiled important specs for both models in the chart below. 2016 Golf R This year, if you find yourself behind the wheel of the 2016 Volkswagen Golf R, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a hatchback that has more of what you’re looking for. At its heart runs a 2-liter, turbocharged engine capable of a power output not seen in a Volkswagen before. Behind the wheel, you’re in for a responsive, engaging drive with its six-speed manual transmission. If you’re looking for the most power out of your vehicle, the Golf R is a great choice. While its fuel efficiency isn’t as high as the GTI, the 23 / 30 mph it does get is definitely impressive for the size engine that it sports. 2016 Golf GTI While the 2016 Volkswagen Golf  GTI definitely offers an impressive amount of power, the truly remarkable part about it is its affordability. Whether we’re talking its ticket price or everyday spending on gas, the GTI is a powerhouse that you could find in anyone’s driveway. Drivers looking for a money saver that’s going to be able to handle the road ahead will find that that the GTI is more than capable. Questions? Feel free to contact us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen or take a look at the rest of our blog for more information. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of one of these models, take a look at the models available in our inventory. If any of them are what you’re looking for, let us know and we’ll schedule a test drive. Let us know if we don’t have the model you’re looking for and we’ll make a note to let you know when it becomes available. Which do you prefer – the Golf R or the GTI? Comment below!

2016 Volkswagen GTI specs The Volkswagen Golf GTI is an excellent choice for drivers looking for a vehicle that can provide them with ample amounts of power, while still being affordable for everyday driving. Behind the wheel of the 2016 GTI, not only do you have access to its powerful, yet efficient engine, but you also get the added benefit of all of the additional technology that is coming with the model this year. The 2016 Volkswagen GTI specs show that not only does Volkswagen value power and affordability, they also want to ensure that you have the most enjoyable driving experience possible. While we don’t have all of the details on the 2016 model of the GTI, if the 2015 GTI is anything to go off of, drivers can expect a nice power output of around 220 horsepower with 258 lb.-ft. of torque. With all of this power at its hands, the GTI is capable of reaching a top speed of 125 mph. Power isn’t everything for the GTI, either. The 2015 GTI is capable of achieving truly impressive fuel economy, with 25 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway. Add that to the incredibly affordable base price and you’ve got a powerhouse that can be found in any driver’s garage. New technology in the 2016 GTI With the new model year, the Golf GTI is seeing even more changes in terms of technology. The 2016 GTI will feature the MIB II infotainment system, giving drivers access to a wide variety of in-car apps and features. The system features USB connectivity and the VW Car-Net App-Connect which functions off of the integrated 6.5-inch touch screen. Other new features include a rearview camera as a standard, making backing up in your vehicle easier than ever. An updated Driver Assistance Package is also available on SE and Autobahn models, and the update includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking as well as Lane Assist and a Blind Spot Monitor which features Rear Traffic Alerts, Parking Pilot and Park Assist. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of this impressive vehicle when it arrives on our lot, be sure to check on our inventory here at Speedcraft Volkswagen. For more information on this and other upcoming vehicles, be sure to check out the rest of our blog. What do you think of the new 2016 GTI? Comment below!

2016 Volkswagen GTI specs The Volkswagen Golf GTI is an excellent choice for drivers looking for a vehicle that can provide them with ample amounts of power, while still being affordable for everyday driving. Behind the wheel of the 2016 GTI, not only do you have access to its powerful, yet efficient engine, but you also get the added benefit of all of the additional technology that is coming with the model this year. The 2016 Volkswagen GTI specs show that not only does Volkswagen value power and affordability, they also want to ensure that you have the most enjoyable driving experience possible. While we don’t have all of the details on the 2016 model of the GTI, if the 2015 GTI is anything to go off of, drivers can expect a nice power output of around 220 horsepower with 258 lb.-ft. of torque. With all of this power at its hands, the GTI is capable of reaching a top speed of 125 mph. Power isn’t everything for the GTI, either. The 2015 GTI is capable of achieving truly impressive fuel economy, with 25 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway. Add that to the incredibly affordable base price and you’ve got a powerhouse that can be found in any driver’s garage. New technology in the 2016 GTI With the new model year, the Golf GTI is seeing even more changes in terms of technology. The 2016 GTI will feature the MIB II infotainment system, giving drivers access to a wide variety of in-car apps and features. The system features USB connectivity and the VW Car-Net App-Connect which functions off of the integrated 6.5-inch touch screen. Other new features include a rearview camera as a standard, making backing up in your vehicle easier than ever. An updated Driver Assistance Package is also available on SE and Autobahn models, and the update includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking as well as Lane Assist and a Blind Spot Monitor which features Rear Traffic Alerts, Parking Pilot and Park Assist. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of this impressive vehicle when it arrives on our lot, be sure to check on our inventory here at Speedcraft Volkswagen. For more information on this and other upcoming vehicles, be sure to check out the rest of our blog. What do you think of the new 2016 GTI? Comment below!

2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport specs The drivers of the 2015 Volkswagen Golf already enjoy a nice, powerful drive with an engine that tops out at a respectable 220 horsepower. But if you’re looking for more power out of your vehicle, Volkswagen’s got you covered. Recently, it’s been announced that the 2 016 Volkswagen GTI Clubsport engine specs show that the 2016 GTI will be one of the most powerful yet! Volkswagen is celebrating 40 years of the Volkswagen Golf GTI by creating this new powerful model. Stylistically, the Clubsport model has a lot of similarities to the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI. Despite these similarities, the Clubsport still manages to make its own statement with a selection of additions. One of the additions to the 2016 Golf is the new innovative roof spoiler. The spoiler adds substantial downforce to the hatchback, which makes it easier to control at higher speeds. This extra control is definitely a plus when you consider all of the power under the hood of the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport. It will have the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the Golf, but Volkswagen has announced it will reach a truly impressive output of 292 horsepower. 2016 VW Golf GTI Release date and pricing The official pricing for the 2016 VW Golf GTI Clubsport has yet to be announced, but we suspect it will be priced somewhere between the GTI and R models. In that case, we here at Speedcraft VW would predict that its price tag will range around $30,000. For now, the 2016 VW Golf GTI Clubsport is only schedule to release in Europe. While this is unfortunate, it doesn’t mean that the hatchback won’t eventually make its way to the states. If you’re interested in learning more about upcoming Volkswagen models as well as our current models, be sure to take a look at the rest of our blog. We have a selection of information on all sorts of Volkswagen-related news and information. Let us know what you think of the 2016 VW Golf GTI Clubsport in the comments below!

2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport specs The drivers of the 2015 Volkswagen Golf already enjoy a nice, powerful drive with an engine that tops out at a respectable 220 horsepower. But if you’re looking for more power out of your vehicle, Volkswagen’s got you covered. Recently, it’s been announced that the 2 016 Volkswagen GTI Clubsport engine specs show that the 2016 GTI will be one of the most powerful yet! Volkswagen is celebrating 40 years of the Volkswagen Golf GTI by creating this new powerful model. Stylistically, the Clubsport model has a lot of similarities to the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI. Despite these similarities, the Clubsport still manages to make its own statement with a selection of additions. One of the additions to the 2016 Golf is the new innovative roof spoiler. The spoiler adds substantial downforce to the hatchback, which makes it easier to control at higher speeds. This extra control is definitely a plus when you consider all of the power under the hood of the 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport. It will have the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the Golf, but Volkswagen has announced it will reach a truly impressive output of 292 horsepower. 2016 VW Golf GTI Release date and pricing The official pricing for the 2016 VW Golf GTI Clubsport has yet to be announced, but we suspect it will be priced somewhere between the GTI and R models. In that case, we here at Speedcraft VW would predict that its price tag will range around $30,000. For now, the 2016 VW Golf GTI Clubsport is only schedule to release in Europe. While this is unfortunate, it doesn’t mean that the hatchback won’t eventually make its way to the states. If you’re interested in learning more about upcoming Volkswagen models as well as our current models, be sure to take a look at the rest of our blog. We have a selection of information on all sorts of Volkswagen-related news and information. Let us know what you think of the 2016 VW Golf GTI Clubsport in the comments below!

Volkswagen recalls over 6,000 models due to faulty component Volkswagen has followed in BMW and Nissan's suit in recalling some of their vehicles due to problems with equipment supplied by Bosch engineering company. The parts in question are the nickel-plated fuel pumps. It has been discovered that the nickel plating has the potential to chip off the part and cause problems with the pump. The 2015 Volkswagen Golf is the most recent victim in a string of vehicle recalls caused by this problem. Along with the Volkswagen recall, other victims include the Audi A4 and GTI.  The total number of these models that need to be repaired add up to 6,204 units. Problems like this have been known to happen before. For this case, the pump’s nickel plating can possibly flake and fall off of the component. The nickel chips could end up causing friction in the pump and, if left unchecked, eventually lead to the component failing. No reports of accidents or injuries resulting from this issue in Volkswagen have been made, but this remains a serious problem. Even though these models don’t have the same exact component, all of them have feature the same nickel plating process. Because of this, all of them have the potential to be dangerous to drivers. Owners of recalled vehicles If you’re the owner of a model of the 2015 Volkswagen Golf, there is a good chance that it has been recalled. If you are the owner of a vehicle affected by the problems with the Bosch parts, you should be notified by mail soon if you haven’t been already. Unfortunately, Bosch does not currently have enough parts made to replace all of the defective components. Automakers are currently working with them in order to create more pumps to replace the defective ones. It is important to note that once parts become available, our service department will replace these components for affected customers free of charge. If you haven’t received notification of a recall, but still want to see if your vehicle is affected, you can do so easily on the Volkswagen website. The Volkswagen recall tool makes it easy to check up on your vehicle based on its VIN number. Your car’s VIN number should be located on the driver’s side dashboard, or on the sticker inside the driver doorjam. If you can’t find it in either of these places, the number can also be found on your registration form. With it, you can use the recall tool to view what recalls have been issued for you vehicle. If you have a used vehicle, you can also view if any recalls have been made on your vehicle in the past, and if the problem had been fixed.

Volkswagen recalls over 6,000 models due to faulty component Volkswagen has followed in BMW and Nissan's suit in recalling some of their vehicles due to problems with equipment supplied by Bosch engineering company. The parts in question are the nickel-plated fuel pumps. It has been discovered that the nickel plating has the potential to chip off the part and cause problems with the pump. The 2015 Volkswagen Golf is the most recent victim in a string of vehicle recalls caused by this problem. Along with the Volkswagen recall, other victims include the Audi A4 and GTI.  The total number of these models that need to be repaired add up to 6,204 units. Problems like this have been known to happen before. For this case, the pump’s nickel plating can possibly flake and fall off of the component. The nickel chips could end up causing friction in the pump and, if left unchecked, eventually lead to the component failing. No reports of accidents or injuries resulting from this issue in Volkswagen have been made, but this remains a serious problem. Even though these models don’t have the same exact component, all of them have feature the same nickel plating process. Because of this, all of them have the potential to be dangerous to drivers. Owners of recalled vehicles If you’re the owner of a model of the 2015 Volkswagen Golf, there is a good chance that it has been recalled. If you are the owner of a vehicle affected by the problems with the Bosch parts, you should be notified by mail soon if you haven’t been already. Unfortunately, Bosch does not currently have enough parts made to replace all of the defective components. Automakers are currently working with them in order to create more pumps to replace the defective ones. It is important to note that once parts become available, our service department will replace these components for affected customers free of charge. If you haven’t received notification of a recall, but still want to see if your vehicle is affected, you can do so easily on the Volkswagen website. The Volkswagen recall tool makes it easy to check up on your vehicle based on its VIN number. Your car’s VIN number should be located on the driver’s side dashboard, or on the sticker inside the driver doorjam. If you can’t find it in either of these places, the number can also be found on your registration form. With it, you can use the recall tool to view what recalls have been issued for you vehicle. If you have a used vehicle, you can also view if any recalls have been made on your vehicle in the past, and if the problem had been fixed.