The basic 1991 Volkswagen Golf, available as either a two- or four-door GL hatchback, was unchanged from the previous year. It was powered by a 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that generated 100 hp, and came with a five-speed manual transmission, which was standard. A three-speed automatic was available as an option. New for 1991, however, was a Golf GTI 16V trim package with a 2.0-liter, 135-hp 4-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission. Also available was a GTI version with a 105-hp 4-cylinder engine and a three-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment for the 1991 Volkswagen Golf included power brakes, bucket seats, a tachometer, and a rear-window defroster. The GTI and GTI 16V added tilt steering, among other features. Options included air conditioning, cruise control, a manually operated sunroof, and a cassette player. Driver satisfaction with the 1991 Volkswagen Golf was high, with drivers citing the car's handling, reliability, and acceleration as positive points. Negatives included the sound system and a lack of cupholders.