So, you're curious about the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport and its 0-60 mph time, huh? Well, buckle up because we're diving deep into what makes this hot hatch a blast to drive. We will explore its performance capabilities and overall driving experience. The GTI has always been a benchmark for sporty, fun-to-drive cars that don't break the bank, and the 2017 GTI Sport is no exception. The GTI Sport distinguishes itself with a few key enhancements over the base model, making it an even more compelling choice for enthusiasts. It's got more than just a snazzy name; it delivers on the promise of enhanced performance and a more engaging driving experience. It’s the kind of car that puts a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel, whether you're carving through canyon roads or just zipping around town.

    One of the most significant upgrades on the 2017 GTI Sport is the inclusion of the Performance Package as standard. This package bumps up the horsepower and adds larger brakes and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. These enhancements work together to improve the car's acceleration, handling, and overall performance feel. The limited-slip differential is particularly noteworthy, as it helps to distribute power more effectively between the front wheels. It significantly reduces wheel spin during hard acceleration and improves traction in corners, making the car feel more planted and controlled. The larger brakes provide more stopping power and increased fade resistance, which is essential for spirited driving. The GTI Sport also boasts a sport-tuned suspension that strikes a great balance between ride comfort and handling prowess. It's firm enough to keep the car stable and composed in corners, yet still compliant enough to absorb bumps and road imperfections without jarring the occupants. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback and making it easy to place the car exactly where you want it on the road. This combination of performance-enhancing features makes the 2017 GTI Sport a seriously fun car to drive, and it's easy to see why it's such a popular choice among enthusiasts.

    Performance and 0-60 MPH Time

    Let's get down to brass tacks: the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport typically clocks a 0-60 mph time in the neighborhood of 5.9 to 6.2 seconds. Keep in mind that this can vary slightly depending on factors like road conditions, tire condition, and even the driver's skill. But generally speaking, you're looking at a sub-6.5-second sprint to 60 mph, which is pretty darn quick for a car in this class. The GTI Sport gets its get-up-and-go from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. That's a healthy dose of power for a relatively small car, and it translates to brisk acceleration and plenty of punch in everyday driving situations. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DSG). The manual is a joy to use, with precise shifts and a well-weighted clutch, while the DSG offers lightning-fast gear changes and the convenience of an automatic. Both transmissions are well-suited to the engine's character, and they contribute to the car's overall fun-to-drive factor.

    Beyond the raw numbers, the GTI Sport's performance is about more than just straight-line speed. It's about how the car feels when you're behind the wheel. The engine is responsive and eager to rev, and the turbocharger delivers a strong surge of torque that makes the car feel quick and lively. The chassis is well-balanced and communicative, and the suspension keeps the car planted and controlled in corners. The steering is precise and provides excellent feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. All of these elements work together to create a driving experience that is both engaging and rewarding. Whether you're commuting to work or tackling your favorite back road, the GTI Sport is a car that will put a smile on your face. It's a true driver's car that offers a blend of performance, practicality, and affordability that is hard to beat.

    Key Features of the 2017 GTI Sport

    The 2017 GTI Sport isn't just about speed; it's packed with features that enhance the overall driving experience and make it a joy to own. Let's run through some of the highlights:

    • Performance Package: As mentioned earlier, the Performance Package is standard on the Sport trim. This includes an increase in horsepower, larger brakes, and the VAQ electronically controlled limited-slip differential.
    • Sport Suspension: The GTI Sport features a sport-tuned suspension that provides a great balance between handling and ride comfort. It keeps the car stable and composed in corners while still absorbing bumps and road imperfections.
    • Sport Seats: The GTI Sport comes with bolstered sport seats that provide excellent support during spirited driving. They're also comfortable enough for long road trips.
    • Unique Styling: The GTI Sport has unique styling cues that set it apart from other GTI models. These include special wheels, a black roof, and red accents.
    • Technology: The 2017 GTI Sport boasts a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also has a rearview camera and available driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

    The GTI Sport's interior is well-designed and built with high-quality materials. The controls are easy to use, and the seats are comfortable and supportive. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, and the available driver-assistance features add an extra layer of safety and convenience. Overall, the GTI Sport is a well-rounded package that offers a great combination of performance, features, and value.

    Driving Experience

    Alright, picture this: you're behind the wheel of the 2017 GTI Sport, the road ahead is winding, and you're ready to have some fun. What's it like? In short, it's a blast. The GTI Sport is a car that begs to be driven, and it rewards you with a responsive engine, sharp handling, and a playful character.

    The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback and making it easy to place the car exactly where you want it on the road. The suspension is firm enough to keep the car stable and composed in corners, yet still compliant enough to absorb bumps and road imperfections without jarring the occupants. The brakes are strong and provide confident stopping power. But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the GTI Sport's driving experience is its balance. It's not just a one-trick pony that excels in one area but falls short in others. Instead, it's a well-rounded machine that offers a great combination of performance, comfort, and practicality. It's a car that you can enjoy driving every day, whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or hitting the open road.

    The 2017 GTI Sport also benefits from its relatively light weight. At around 3,000 pounds, it's lighter than many of its competitors, which contributes to its nimble handling and quick acceleration. The light weight also helps to improve fuel economy, making the GTI Sport a surprisingly efficient car for its level of performance. All in all, the GTI Sport's driving experience is one of its strongest selling points. It's a car that is fun, engaging, and rewarding to drive, and it's sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

    Is the 2017 GTI Sport Worth It?

    So, is the 2017 Volkswagen GTI Sport worth it? For many car enthusiasts, the answer is a resounding yes! It offers a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and affordability that is hard to find in other cars. The inclusion of the Performance Package as standard on the Sport trim makes it an especially attractive option, as it adds significant performance enhancements without a huge price premium.

    The GTI Sport is a car that you can enjoy driving every day, whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or hitting the open road. It's also a car that is relatively affordable to own and maintain, which is an important consideration for many buyers. Of course, the GTI Sport isn't perfect. It's not the most luxurious car on the market, and it doesn't have the most advanced technology. But for what it is – a sporty, fun-to-drive hatchback – it's hard to beat. If you're looking for a car that is engaging, rewarding, and practical, the 2017 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 that's something that's hard to put a price on. It's a testament to Volkswagen's ability to create cars that are both fun and functional, and it's a car that has earned its place as a modern classic. The 2017 GTI Sport stands out as a sweet spot in the GTI lineup, offering enthusiasts a compelling blend of performance upgrades and appealing aesthetics. For those prioritizing driving pleasure and dynamic handling, the 2017 GTI Sport presents an exceptional value proposition, solidifying its status as a top choice in the realm of sports hatchbacks.