With an iron block and aluminum alloy heads, the long-stroke engine has dual cams on top and five valves for each of the four cylinders. Output runs to 150 hp at 5,700 rpm, with 155 lb-ft of torque available in a flat band from 1,750 to 4,600 rpm. Superior performance traits of the GTI trace to its foundation on the rigid platform of the fourth-generation Golf. Its structure is composed of tailored blanks of sheet steel that vary in thickness. Through intelligent applications derived from computer modeling, the assorted metals are combined by selective means to increase strength of the platform and also reduce overall weight.
Power brakes, with discs in front and drums in back, unite through computerized anti-lock controls.
In addition, brakes and the 1.8T engine tie to a traction controller, which VW labels ASR, for anti-slip regulation. It operates with an electronic differential lock at speeds above 24 mph to maximize traction and minimize slippage, with braking applied to an individual wheel when on-board sensors detect abnormal rotation. The passenger compartment sets two buckets in front of a two-place jump seat with space behind in the hatch bay for gear. Rear seat cushions on each side flip forward independently as seatbacks also fold separately to form a flat floor and increase the cargo capacity. Volkswagen maximizes equipment on the GTI GLS, which gets more standard features than other compacts.