Japanese Car Auction Find – 2014 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The other day we discussed the possibility of a revival of Mazda’s MPS performance brand, starting with a possible Mazda2 MPS that could make an appearance sometime in the next few years. When/if that car comes to fruition, it will compete with sporty hatchbacks like the Ford Fiesta ST and the Volkswagen Golf GTI. So, today we’re showcasing one of the latter up for auction in Japan. It’s a 2014 model year, pictured below:

Let’s start with the basics. This is an affordable five-door hatchback with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder petrol engine. The powertrain offers a vigorous 217hp system output and 207 lb-ft of torque. That sporty engine is configured for front-wheel-drive and paired with either a 6-speed manual or, in this case, an upgraded 6-speed automatic transmission. It also gets a dual-clutch transmission with a limited-slip differential, complete with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel.

Since this model uses the automatic transmission, you’ll enjoy an improved fuel economy of 32 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in the city… Not bad at all for such a punchy little sports car. The Golf GTI is still popular even after all these years due to its incredible on-road handling, thanks in large part to its sport-tuned suspension and brakes.

Despite a relatively minimalist design, that red accent on the grille, the 18-inch alloys and the ever-so-slight rear spoiler still help the car stand out on the road.

For your information, this same car won the 2013-2014 Japan Car of the Year award to become the first-ever international import to receive that particular accolade.  Quite an achievement!

Unfortunately, we don’t have any interior pictures for this particular Japanese car auction find. However, since it’s a Volkswagen, you can rest assured that you’ll enjoy plenty of cabin amenities. For example, heated seats, automatic air conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity all come standard, along with a booming audio system with an auxiliary input and built-in iPod cable. It also offers you a surprising amount of cargo space given the car’s relatively small size.

All in all, 2014 was a great model year for the Volkswagen Golf GTI. This particular auction find is in great shape with an overall rating of 4.5. Overall, the Golf GTI is a relatively affordable premium hatch with a huge fun factor and an excellent interior. It may not have the same aesthetic appeal as Mazda’s new 2, but it definitely holds up on the performance front. To learn more, keep reading below the auction sheet:

“Interior A, exterior condition B, first registered February 2014, GTi model, FAT, AAC, official dealer RHD import, idling stop, cruise control, xenon lights, original navigation system, ABS, airbag, original AWs, power steering, power windows, rear view reversing camera, spare smart key, scratches under bumpers, minor scratches on exterior paintwork, front windscreen stone scratches, marks as per map”