Upholding the Germans’ reputation for precise engineering and quality materials, the 2010 Volkswagen GLI deserves strong consideration from those looking for a sport sedan. Visit your Greenville Volkswagen dealer and test drive a new GLI today!
Body Styles, Trims, and Options
The 2010 Volkswagen GLI compact sedan comes standard with bi-xenon headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, metallic interior trim, aggressively bolstered front seats, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, heated side mirrors, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat and a 10-speaker audio system with a CD changer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. New for 2010 are standard cold-weather features that were previously optional, including heated windshield-washer nozzles and heated front seats.
Ordering the optional Autobahn Package gets you a sunroof, leather upholstery and power lumbar support for the driver. There’s also a Sport Styling kit that includes various exterior styling add-ons. Stand-alone options include 18-inch alloy wheels and Volkswagen’s new voice-activated touchscreen navigation system with an integrated 30GB hard drive, SD memory card slot and USB port.
Powertrains and Performance
Only one engine is available on the 2010 Volkswagen GLI: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 200 hp and 207 pound-feet of torque. It’s available with a choice of either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed DSG transmission. The latter is an automated manual that allows either ultra-quick manual-style shifting via steering-wheel buttons or fully automatic operation. The GLI can sprint to 60 mph in about 8 seconds flat. EPA fuel economy estimates for a DSG-equipped GLI stand at 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined. Models sold in California and California-emissions states meet the strict PZEV (partial zero-emissions vehicle) emissions standard.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags are all standard. Side airbags for rear passengers are optional.
In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash tests, the 2010 Volkswagen GLI received four out of five stars for protection of front-seat occupants in head-on collisions and five stars for front- and rear-occupant protection in side impacts. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the GLI earned the top rating of “Good” in both frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests.
Interior Design and Special Features
The cabin of the VW GLI exudes top-notch quality. Clean European design and an exacting fit and finish give it an upscale flair. Performance-oriented touches include a thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel and metallic-trimmed pedals. Firm side bolsters on the front seats hold both driver and passenger snug around corners. Seating is comfortable all around, and the rear seat offers a folding armrest and a split-folding feature. This year’s new and improved navigation system now features an intuitive touchscreen interface and a 30GB hard drive. Trunk capacity measures an impressive 16 cubic feet.