2008 Volkswagen GLI Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

2021 2013 2012 2009 2008
Crash Test Rating
Source   NHTSA
MPG (up to)
21 -22 City / 29 HWY
Source FuelEconomy.gov
Horsepower
200
Seats
5
Front angle medium view.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Kevin W
Want the feel of a race car in a sedan? Look no further than the Volkswagen gli.
The car is exactly what I want. The six-speed manual transmission shifts smoothly and accelerates quickly through the gears. The 2. 0 liter turbocharged engine is extremely quick and reliable while still giving decent gas mileage. The leather seats are comfortable and the racing style geometry hugs you when taking tight corners at fast speeds. As a huge fan of German engineering and attention to detail this car is a perfect fit.
accountCircle L O
It is fast, reliable and comfortable.
Overall awesome car. The gas mileage is perfect. 25/27 around town and 30/32 on the highway. It has panel shifting which makes it fun to drive. Along with sport mode. The only problems I have had with it is that the coils in it go easily. Luckily they were always covered. It is a smooth ride.
accountCircle Eric M
Amazing car, but it will not last.
Lots of chain slap from the cam chain. Lots of failures being reported too. Some worn interior pieces like steering wheel, radio trim. I love the car, but VW messed up some things with it. I wish I could have it forever, but something is bound to break on it soon.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Eric M
Amazing car, but it will not last.
Lots of chain slap from the cam chain. Lots of failures being reported too. Some worn interior pieces like steering wheel, radio trim. I love the car, but VW messed up some things with it. I wish I could have it forever, but something is bound to break on it soon.

Volkswagen GLI Models

Models also known as Trim Levels, are used to identify a vehicle's level of equipment or special features.

car
4dr Sdn Man *Ltd Avail*
200 HP 25-25 MPG 5 Seats
car
4dr Sdn Man *Late Avail*
200 HP 25-25 MPG 5 Seats
car
4dr Sdn Man PZEV
200 HP 25-25 MPG 5 Seats
car
4dr Sdn DSG *Ltd Avail*
200 HP 26-26 MPG 5 Seats
car
4dr Sdn DSG *Late Avail*
200 HP 26-26 MPG 5 Seats
car
4dr Sdn DSG PZEV
200 HP 26-26 MPG 5 Seats
Photos may not match model

2008 Volkswagen GLI Owner Reviews

4.33
3 Reviews
close Write Review
5 stars 67%
4 stars 0%
3 stars 33%
2 stars 0%
1 star 0%
accountCircle L O on March 15, 2021
It is fast, reliable and comfortable.
Overall awesome car. The gas mileage is perfect. 25/27 around town and 30/32 on the highway. It has panel shifting which makes it fun to drive. Along with sport mode. The only problems I have had with it is that the coils in it go easily. Luckily they were always covered. It is a smooth ride.
accountCircle Kevin W on May 3, 2019
Want the feel of a race car in a sedan? Look no further than the Volkswagen gli.
The car is exactly what I want. The six-speed manual transmission shifts smoothly and accelerates quickly through the gears. The 2. 0 liter turbocharged engine is extremely quick and reliable while still giving decent gas mileage. The leather seats are comfortable and the racing style geometry hugs you when taking tight corners at fast speeds. As a huge fan of German engineering and attention to detail this car is a perfect fit.
View All Reviews (3) chevronRightAlternative

Ranks #5 Small Cars by Owners

The 2008 Volkswagen GLI has an average owner rating of 4.50 out of 5 which ranks it #5 of 29 other Small Cars.

1
car
2008 Volkswagen R32
5
2
car
2008 Honda Fit
4.56
5
Tie
car
2008 Volkswagen GLI
4.33

Ranks #8 Small Cars by Fuel Economy

The 2008 Volkswagen GLI has a combined MPG of 34 which ranks it #8 of 30 other Small Cars.

1
car
2008 Honda Civic
36 MPG
2
Tie
car
2008 Kia Rio
35 MPG
8
Tie
car
2008 Volkswagen GLI
29 MPG

Is The 2008 Volkswagen GLI A Good Car?

A very cute and reliable car. Starts first time I turn the key. It is roomy inside but with a small car gas mileage. Good traction in the rain and snow. The 4 door option is a favorite of mine as I... Read More
Chrystal P.

How Reliable Is The 2008 Volkswagen GLI?

It has no major problems and has 240k on it. Does not burn oil or leak any other fluids. Regular oil changes and maintenance is a big part of keeping the car healthy but with that said, this is an... Read More
Chrystal P.

Is The 2008 Volkswagen GLI A Good Value?

It is amazing on gas mileage. I use it as my daily driver and one out of town trip each week (80 miles round trip) and fill up once a week. Oil changes are around $70 for synthetic blend every 3... Read More
Chrystal P.

Safety & Reliability

NHTSA Logo
NHTSA Crash Test

Overall

Front

Rollover

Side

*National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
IIHS Logo
IIHS Crash Test
(Not Tested)
*Insurance Institute for Highway Safety