30: Volkswagen GTI
Some would argue that it is long in the tooth, some would argue that it’s a trendsetter. Everyone universally agrees that the GTI is the quintessential hot hatch for anyone who desires performance. Volkswagen has made a lot of changes to the product line over the years but the GTI has remained the one consistent thing. Few cars can provide the same kind of excitement for the price, and you have to admit that nothing else looks like it on the road. The GTI has the German handling and driving capabilities that you’d expect out of a much more expensive car. On top of this, the interior is well-appointed with plenty of luxury features that make it worth putting into consideration.
Road manners are the main thing that makes the GTI a compelling buy. A lot of the technology has been borrowed from the Porsche roots in Volkswagen. We’re not saying that this GTI is a Porsche, but it does handle quite well. Generally, cars in this price range are quite cheap and underpowered but the GTI handles business. On top of that, the cost of ownership on the GTI is generally affordable which means that the resale value will hold. Whether you are trying to go to the track or you just want a fun drive to work, the GTI is one of the most underrated turbos on the road.
