An affordable sports hatch, the 2009 Volkswagen GTI adds heated front seats and heated washer fluid to its standard features this year. Riding on a sport-tuned independent suspension, the two-door and four-door versions of the front-wheel drive GTI carry the same set of equipment and powertrain. A turbo 2.0-liter inline-four delivers 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque, paired with a standard 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DSG automatic. This sequential shift transmission mimics a manual, but without the clutch. Acceleration is quick and responsive, though owners and critics complain about the long throws of the manual. PZEV (partial zero emissions) versions of the coupe and sedan are offered in California. With solid German engineering, the 2009 GTI exhibits crisp handling and precise steering, without sacrificing a bit of driving fun. Though no sports car, the GTI pleases the modest performance enthusiast with its responsive ride and tuner capabilities. It also boasts a good safety record, thanks to standard 4-wheel ABS brakes, traction and stability control, xenon HID headlamps, 17-inch performance tires, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows. Available in a single trim level, the GTI offers plenty of creature comforts, with power features, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, leather trim, and a 10-speaker 6-CD changer with MP3 jack and satellite radio. The 2009 GTI holds 15 cubic feet of storage, with a low load-in height and carpeted floor. Rear seats split-fold 60/40, though not completely flat. A fold-down armrest works double-duty as a trunk pass-through. Rear passengers may feel a bit cramped with 35 inches of legroom and may struggle with entry and exit in the two-door GTI. Front passengers are treated to a standard 41 inches of legroom, good headroom, and comfortable sport seats. The glove box features temperature control and can be cooled. Drivers love the solid build, quality interior materials, responsive acceleration, and superior handling of the 2009 GTI, which works well as both a functional city car and a weekend back-road cruiser. Though marketed as a performance hatchback for those on a budget, potential buyers should be aware that the price of the 2009 GTI quickly soars with the addition of numerous options, such as a sunroof, navigation system, leather upholstery, and power front seats. Other drawbacks include a harsh ride when outfitted with the optional 18-inch wheels and the lack of a standard V6 to add a bit more excitement behind the wheel.