Let's dive into the exhilarating world of the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport and uncover its impressive 0-60 mph time, along with a comprehensive review of what makes this hot hatch a favorite among car enthusiasts. The GTI Sport trim, in particular, offers a sweet spot of performance and features, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a fun-to-drive daily driver. We'll explore its engine specs, performance metrics, interior features, and overall driving experience to give you a complete picture of what this car brings to the table. Buckle up, because we're about to take a ride!

Performance and 0-60 Time

When it comes to performance, the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a spirited 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant cranks out around 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. That's plenty of punch to make your daily commute or weekend joyrides truly enjoyable. This engine is known for its responsiveness and eagerness to rev, making it a perfect match for the GTI's sporty character. The turbocharger spools up quickly, providing a surge of power that's readily available throughout the rev range. This translates to excellent acceleration and confident passing maneuvers. The GTI Sport came standard with a six-speed manual transmission, which is a delight to use. The throws are short and precise, and the clutch is nicely weighted, making it easy to execute smooth shifts. For those who prefer an automatic, a six-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission was also available. The DSG offers lightning-fast gear changes and adds to the car's overall performance feel. So, how does all this translate to the all-important 0-60 mph time? The 2017 GTI Sport can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.2 to 6.3 seconds. That's seriously quick for a hatchback and puts it in contention with some genuine sports cars. The combination of the punchy engine, well-sorted transmission, and relatively light weight makes for a car that feels eager and responsive in almost any situation. Beyond the numbers, the GTI Sport is simply a fun car to drive. The engine makes a nice sound, the steering is precise, and the chassis is well-balanced. It's a car that encourages you to push it a little harder and rewards you with a genuinely engaging driving experience.

Engine and Mechanical Details

Delving deeper into the engine and mechanical aspects of the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport, it’s clear that Volkswagen paid close attention to detail. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, often referred to as the EA888, is a marvel of modern engineering. This engine features direct fuel injection, which helps to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions while simultaneously boosting power output. The turbocharger itself is a key component, forcing more air into the engine to generate more horsepower and torque. The engine also incorporates variable valve timing, which optimizes valve lift and duration for improved performance and efficiency across the rev range. The GTI Sport also benefits from a sport-tuned suspension. This suspension setup features stiffer springs, revised dampers, and a lowered ride height compared to the standard Golf. These changes result in sharper handling, reduced body roll, and a more connected feel to the road. The steering is also worth noting. The GTI Sport features a progressive steering system, which varies the steering ratio depending on the steering angle. This means that the steering is more responsive and direct when you're making small adjustments at high speeds, but it's also lighter and easier to manage when you're maneuvering at low speeds. The braking system is equally impressive. The GTI Sport comes standard with large disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The brakes are also fade-resistant, meaning they can withstand repeated hard use without losing their effectiveness. Overall, the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport is a well-engineered machine that's designed to deliver a thrilling driving experience. The engine is powerful and responsive, the suspension is sporty and well-tuned, and the steering and brakes are precise and confidence-inspiring. It's a car that's equally at home on the track as it is on the daily commute.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport, you'll find a cabin that's both sporty and functional. The interior design is clean and modern, with high-quality materials and a focus on ergonomics. The front seats are particularly noteworthy. They're well-bolstered and supportive, providing excellent comfort and holding you firmly in place during spirited driving. The seats are also heated, which is a nice touch on cold days. The GTI Sport comes standard with cloth upholstery, but leather upholstery was available as an option. The dashboard is well-organized and easy to read, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The infotainment system features a touchscreen display that's responsive and intuitive to use. It includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone into the car's system. The GTI Sport also comes standard with a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. Other standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. The rear seats are surprisingly spacious, offering enough legroom and headroom for adults. The rear seats also fold down, expanding the cargo area and making it easy to carry larger items. Overall, the interior of the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport is a comfortable and well-equipped space that's perfect for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. It's a testament to Volkswagen's attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Driving Experience

The 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport truly shines when you get behind the wheel and experience its driving dynamics. The combination of its potent engine, well-tuned suspension, and precise steering makes for a truly engaging and rewarding driving experience. Whether you're carving through twisty backroads or cruising down the highway, the GTI Sport feels confident and composed. The engine is always eager to respond to your inputs, and the turbocharger provides a satisfying surge of power that's addictive. The manual transmission is a joy to use, with short, precise throws and a nicely weighted clutch. The DSG transmission is also a great option, offering lightning-fast gear changes and adding to the car's overall performance feel. The GTI Sport's suspension is firm but not harsh, providing a good balance between handling and comfort. It soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road without sacrificing its sporty character. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a good sense of what the front wheels are doing. This allows you to place the car exactly where you want it on the road. The brakes are also strong and confidence-inspiring, providing ample stopping power in all conditions. One of the things that makes the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport so special is its versatility. It's a car that's equally at home on the track as it is on the daily commute. It's comfortable enough for long road trips, yet sporty enough to provide plenty of thrills on the weekends. It's a true all-rounder that can do it all. If you're looking for a fun-to-drive, practical, and well-rounded car, the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a car that will put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

Reliability and Common Issues

When considering the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport, it's essential to address reliability and potential common issues. Generally, the GTI has a reputation for being reasonably reliable, but like any car, it's not without its potential problems. One of the most common issues reported by owners is related to the water pump. The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine to prevent overheating. In some cases, the water pump can fail prematurely, leading to engine damage. Another potential issue is related to the turbocharger. The turbocharger is a complex piece of machinery that's subjected to high temperatures and pressures. Over time, the turbocharger can wear out or develop leaks, leading to a decrease in performance. Some owners have also reported issues with the infotainment system. The touchscreen display can sometimes freeze or become unresponsive, requiring a reboot. Additionally, some owners have experienced problems with the DSG transmission. The DSG is a sophisticated piece of technology, and it can sometimes be prone to issues like rough shifting or hesitation. To mitigate these potential issues, it's important to perform regular maintenance on your 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport. This includes changing the oil regularly, checking the coolant level, and inspecting the brakes. It's also a good idea to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic on a regular basis to catch any potential problems before they become major issues. Overall, the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport is a relatively reliable car, but it's important to be aware of the potential common issues. With proper maintenance and care, you can help ensure that your GTI Sport provides you with many years of trouble-free driving.

Is the 2017 GTI Sport a Good Buy?

So, is the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport a good buy? Absolutely! It strikes a fantastic balance between performance, practicality, and affordability. You're getting a car that's genuinely fun to drive, thanks to its punchy turbocharged engine and sporty suspension. The 0-60 mph time of around 6.2 seconds is impressive for a hatchback and puts it in the realm of some serious sports cars. The interior is well-designed and comfortable, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. It's also packed with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera. While there are some potential reliability issues to be aware of, such as the water pump and turbocharger, these can be mitigated with regular maintenance and care. Compared to other cars in its class, the GTI Sport offers a compelling package. It's more refined and sophisticated than some of its rivals, while still being sporty and engaging to drive. It's also more practical and versatile than many other sports cars on the market. The 2017 GTI Sport holds its value well, meaning that you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell it. Of course, it's always a good idea to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase. But if you're looking for a fun-to-drive, practical, and well-rounded car, the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a car that will put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel, and it's a car that you'll be proud to own.