The GTI is fun to drive, with its high-tech, 200 horsepower 2.0T four-cylinder engine that produces 207 ft.-lbs. of torque, fully independent sports-tuned suspension, aggressive exterior styling, and a practical interior that equally mixes functionality, flair and a driver-first focus and layout.

The 2008 GTI is a solid and aggressive sports model with an available automated manual DSGTM transmission that utilizes direct shifting, which automatically depresses clutch-shift points more efficiently and quicker than even a professional driver can. For those driving enthusiasts who want the control of a clutch, the GTI comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission.  With all that power and performance, and fuel economy of nearly 30 miles per gallon on the highway, it is easy to see why the GTI is a repeated winner of Car and Driver’s 10BEST.

Car and Driver selects its 10BEST cars after a weeklong, editorial staff-wide examination of all of the year’s newest and best cars. The GTI was among 57 vehicles considered for the honor.